Today, July 1, two NRA-backed bills that were passed in the Idaho Legislature and signed into law by Governor Butch Otter (R) during the 2014 legislative session will take effect. The NRA believes it is important that all citizens in Idaho understand the basic legal parameters of each of these new laws. We encourage all individuals who wish to take advantage of the expansion of those laws to read the following descriptions.
Senate Bill 1254, sponsored by state Senator Curt McKenzie (R-13), will permit qualified retired law enforcement officers and law-abiding adults who have obtained an Idaho enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon to possess a concealed firearm on public college or university campuses.
Who Can Possess a Firearm?
- A qualified retired law enforcement officer who possesses a valid license to carry a concealed firearm, pursuant to Idaho Code Ann. §18-3302H (2014).
- An individual who possesses a valid enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon, pursuant to Idaho Code Ann. §18-3302K (2014).
Where Can an Individual Possess a Firearm?
- On a public college or university campus.
Exceptions:
o An individual who is otherwise permitted to lawfully possess a concealed firearm on a public college or university campus may not possess a firearm within:
- A student dormitory or residence hall; or
- A public entertainment or sports facility that has a seating capacity of at least 1,000 persons.
Note:
- Please review the firearms policy of your public college or university. Always follow your college or university’s firearm policy, even if you believe the policy is contrary to state law. If you believe that one or more the locations on your college or university campus has been improperly designated as a prohibited place, please send an e-mail describing that location and your concern to State&Local@nrahq.org.
When Can an Individual Possess a Firearm?
- The law is effective on July 1, 2014.
In What Manner Can an Individual Possess a Firearm?
- An individual who possesses a valid license pursuant to §18-3302H or §18-3302K is permitted to lawfully possess a concealed firearm on a public college or university campus.
Note:
- It is a crime to display a firearm in a rude, angry and threatening manner. Pursuant to Idaho Code Ann. §18-3303, “Every person who, not in necessary self-defense, in the presence of two (2) or more persons, draws or exhibits any deadly weapon in a rude, angry and threatening manner, or who, in any manner, unlawfully uses the same, in any fight or quarrel, is guilty of a misdemeanor.”
- It is a crime to carry a concealed weapon while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
House Bill 399, which also takes effect today, will lower the minimum age to hunt big game from twelve years old to ten years old, while retaining the requirement that an individual younger than twelve must be accompanied in the field by an adult licensed to hunt in Idaho.
This summary is not to be considered as legal advice or a restatement of law. To determine the applicability of these laws to specific situations which you may encounter, you are strongly urged to consult a local attorney.