This bill amends the Idaho Code to revise the jurisdictional limits and provisions related to the Small Claims Department of the Magistrate Division. Specifically, it increases the maximum amount for claims from five thousand dollars ($5,000) to fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) for both monetary claims and claims for the recovery of personal property. Additionally, it clarifies that the small claims department cannot award punitive damages or damages for pain and suffering. The bill also stipulates that actions must be brought in the county where the defendant resides or where the cause of action arose, with provisions for a change of venue if necessary.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the appeal process for judgments rendered in the small claims department. It allows dissatisfied parties to appeal to a lawyer magistrate, with the requirement that they pay an attorney's fee to the prevailing party as outlined in section 12-120(6) of the Idaho Code, replacing the previous fixed fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00). The appeal must be heard in the county where the original small claim was filed, and a fee of twenty dollars ($20.00) is required from the party taking the appeal, which will be directed to the county treasurer for deposit into the court technology fund. The bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1-2301
Engrossment 1: 1-2301, 1-2311