CRIMES AGAINST PEACE OFFICERS – Amends existing law to provide penalties for assault, battery, or murder of a peace officer.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 281 imposes stricter penalties for crimes against peace officers, including 15 years for assault and 35 years for murder, enhancing protections for law enforcement.

Reported Printed and Referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration

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Bill Overview

Bill Number: H 281

Title: Crimes Against Peace Officers – Amends existing law to provide penalties for assault, battery, or murder of a peace officer.

Introduced: February 20, 2025

Status: Reported Printed and Referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration

Classification: Bill

Subject: Courts, Criminal Offenses and Procedures, Law Enforcement

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 281, also known as the "Bolter-Stall Defend the Defender Act," aims to enhance the penalties for crimes committed against peace officers in Idaho. This legislation is a response to a noted increase in assaults on law enforcement personnel, intending to deter such crimes by imposing stricter penalties. The bill memorializes two Idaho officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, emphasizing the need for stronger protections for those serving in law enforcement.

Key Provisions

Assault or Battery on Peace Officers:

The bill amends Section 18-915 of the Idaho Code to establish a mandatory fixed term of imprisonment of 15 years for individuals convicted of assault or battery against peace officers, with a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
For battery with intent to commit a serious felony, the punishment remains imprisonment not to exceed 25 years.

Murder of a Peace Officer:

The bill amends Section 18-4004 of the Idaho Code to impose a minimum sentence of 35 years for the murder of a peace officer, ensuring that offenders are not eligible for parole or sentence reduction for good conduct during this period.

Expanded Definition of Victims:

The legislation broadens the definition of who qualifies as a peace officer to include various law enforcement and emergency personnel, thereby extending protections to a wider range of public servants.

Emergency Declaration:

The bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring immediate implementation of the new penalties.

Impact

Affected Parties: The legislation primarily impacts individuals who commit crimes against peace officers, as well as the officers themselves and their families. It aims to provide peace officers with greater protection and support in their duties.

Fiscal Considerations: According to the fiscal note, there is no immediate fiscal impact on the state General Fund or local governments; however, there may be increased costs associated with the imprisonment of individuals convicted under the new penalties.

Legislative Actions

February 20, 2025: Introduced and referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration.

February 21, 2025: Reported printed and referred for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 281, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on law enforcement and the community in Idaho.

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