Idaho Capitol Watch

HB 306: CRIMINAL LIBEL – Repeals and adds to existing law to provide for the crime of criminal libel, to provide penalties, to provide for restitution to a victim, and to provide for jurisdiction to prosecute.

Creates felony crime of criminal libel for publishing false statements with actual malice. Repeals existing Chapter 48, Title 18, Idaho Code, and adds new provisions with penalties up to $100,000 fine and 5 years imprisonment, restitution, and special jurisdiction for state officials. Effective July 1, 2025.

Status

Reported Printed (February 24, 2025) · Originated in the Idaho House · Introduced February 21, 2025

Sponsors

  • STATE AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

Committees

  • JRA for Printing

Bill history

  • February 21, 2025 — House: Introduced, read first time, referred to JRA for Printing
  • February 24, 2025 — House: Reported Printed and Held at Desk

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Canonical URL: https://idahocapitolwatch.com/bills/2025-HB306