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Bill

H 222

STATE WEBSITES – Adds to existing law to require state websites to contain certain rule and policy documents and a certain statement.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 222 mandates Idaho state websites to publish current rules and policies, enhancing transparency and public access to government information.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 28, 2025 Session Law Chapter 193 Effective: 07/01/2025
#government #records #rules #scienceandtechnology
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Bill Summary · H 222

Summary of House Bill 222 (H 222)

Bill Overview

  • Title: STATE WEBSITES – Adds to existing law to require state websites to contain certain rule and policy documents and a certain statement.
  • Bill Number: H 222
  • Status: Reported Signed by Governor on March 28, 2025; Effective Date: July 1, 2025
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Government, Records, Rules, Science and Technology

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 222 aims to enhance transparency in state government by mandating that state departments and constitutional officers publish their administrative rules and policies on their official websites. This initiative is designed to make it easier for citizens to access important governmental information and understand the regulations that govern them.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section (67-2512) to Chapter 25, Title 67 of the Idaho Code, which includes the following requirements:

  1. Publication of Rules and Policies:

    • All state departments, divisions, bureaus, sections, commissions, or other sub-entities that maintain a website must publish their current administrative rules and policies online.
    • These documents must be reviewed and updated at least annually to ensure accuracy and relevance.

  2. Mandatory Statement:

    • Each website must include the following statement: > "Agency policy statements and guidance documents shall not have the force and effect of law pursuant to section 67-5207A, Idaho Code."

Affected Entities

The bill affects:
- All state departments and constitutional officers in Idaho that have an online presence.
- Citizens seeking access to administrative rules and policies, thereby promoting greater public engagement and understanding of government operations.

Fiscal Impact

According to the fiscal note, the implementation of this bill is expected to have a minimal impact on state departments and constitutional officers, as it only requires them to add information to existing websites. No new administrative rules will be promulgated as a result of this legislation.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to State Affairs.
  • March 10, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 69-0-1.
  • March 20, 2025: Passed in the Senate.
  • March 28, 2025: Signed by the Governor.
  • July 1, 2025: Effective date of the law.

Conclusion

House Bill 222 represents a significant step towards improving governmental transparency in Idaho by ensuring that essential administrative rules and policies are readily accessible to the public. By requiring annual updates and clear statements regarding the nature of agency documents, the bill aims to foster a more informed citizenry and enhance public trust in government operations.

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

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