The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, Chapter 71, to Title 18 of the Idaho Code, titled the "Property Rights Protection Act." This chapter establishes specific provisions aimed at safeguarding private property rights by restricting government agents from entering private land not open to the public without a valid search warrant, exigent circumstances, or the lawful consent of the property owner or lessee. It defines key terms such as "exigent circumstances," "government agent," and "private land," and outlines the limited access rights of government agents, which allow them to approach residences in a manner consistent with private citizens but prohibit them from conducting searches or inspections beyond what is visible from public vantage points.
Additionally, the bill imposes civil penalties for government agents who knowingly violate these provisions, allowing aggrieved individuals to seek damages and attorney's fees through civil action. It clarifies that certain government agents, such as county sheriffs and police officers, are exempt from these penalties under specific conditions. The bill also includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the chapter is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.