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H 10

EDUCATION – Adds to existing law to allow public schools to display only certain flags and banners on school property and to prohibit schools from displaying certain flags and banners.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill No. 10 restricts flags in Idaho public schools to promote a politically neutral environment, prohibiting displays that represent political viewpoints.

U.C. to be returned to Education Committee
#education #flags #schoolsandschooldistricts #teachingandteachers
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Bill Summary · H 10

Summary of House Bill No. 10 (H 10)

Overview

House Bill No. 10 (H 10) is a legislative proposal introduced in the Idaho House of Representatives on January 14, 2025. The bill aims to regulate the display of flags and banners on public school property in Idaho, with the intent of maintaining a politically neutral educational environment.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of H 10 is to ensure that public schools foster an atmosphere free from partisan politics and personal political beliefs. The bill's proponents argue that the presence of third-party flags can create discomfort among students, particularly those who may hold minority viewpoints, potentially leading to feelings of unwelcomeness or bullying.

Key Provisions

H 10 proposes the following key provisions regarding the display of flags and banners in public schools:

  1. Permitted Flags and Banners:

    • The bill specifies that only certain flags and banners may be displayed on school property, including:
      • The United States flag
      • The official flag of Idaho and other governmental entities (counties, municipalities, etc.)
      • Official flags of other U.S. states
      • Official flags of recognized foreign nations
      • Official school flags
      • Flags of U.S. military branches and units
      • Flags of Indian tribes
      • Achievement flags or banners recognized by the Idaho Department of Education
      • Flags or banners representing official school mascots and colors

  2. Prohibited Flags and Banners:

    • The bill prohibits the display of any flags or banners that represent a political viewpoint. This includes flags or banners related to:
      • Political parties
      • Race
      • Sexual orientation
      • Gender
      • Political ideologies

Impact

The bill would affect all public elementary and secondary schools in Idaho. By restricting the types of flags and banners that can be displayed, the legislation aims to create a more inclusive and neutral educational environment for students.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 24, 2025, H 10 has been returned to the Education Committee for further consideration.
  • Timeline:
    • Introduced: January 14, 2025
    • Reported out of Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation: January 16, 2025
    • Read a second time and filed for third reading: January 17, 2025
    • Emergency provisions declare that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025, if passed.

Fiscal Note

The fiscal note accompanying the bill indicates that it will have no financial impact on state or local government revenues or expenditures.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, individuals may contact:
- Representative Edward H. Hill: (208) 332-1000
- Senator Christy Zito: (208) 332-1000

This summary provides an overview of House Bill No. 10, detailing its intent, provisions, and potential implications for public schools in Idaho.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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