This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code to enhance the protection of minors from harmful materials, particularly in educational and library settings. Key changes include the introduction of new definitions, such as "adolescent minor," which refers to individuals aged 13 to 17, and "sexually explicit," which describes materials containing erotic depictions or detailed accounts of sexual conduct. The bill also revises the definition of "harmful to minors" to clarify that it does not include materials with serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. Additionally, it establishes that private and public schools and libraries cannot promote or provide sexually explicit materials to minors.
The bill further outlines penalties for disseminating harmful materials to minors, categorizing such actions as misdemeanors. It allows for civil actions by minors or their guardians against institutions that fail to restrict access to harmful materials, and it mandates that schools and libraries have policies for reviewing such materials. The bill also includes provisions for the location of businesses selling sexual materials, ensuring they are not situated near schools or places of worship. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective from July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 18-1514, 18-1515, 18-1517B, 18-4105, 67-6533