This bill amends Section 34-1807 of the Idaho Code to revise the requirements for individuals circulating petitions for initiatives or referendums. Key changes include the requirement that petition circulators must be "qualified electors" of Idaho rather than just residents, and they must be at least eighteen years old. Additionally, those who are paid to gather signatures must verbally inform potential signers of their paid status and provide the name of the entity compensating them. The bill also mandates that paid circulators wear a visible badge stating their status and the name of the payor, and it requires the Idaho Secretary of State to establish rules regarding the specifications for the printed declarations and badges.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any petition containing signatures gathered by individuals who are not qualified electors will be deemed void. It also clarifies that signatures must be physical and not electronic to be valid. The county clerk is tasked with verifying the signatures and ensuring compliance with the new provisions, and any petitions that violate the disclosure requirements will also be void. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 34-1807