BOISE, ID – The ACLU of Idaho is raising concerns over a bill passed by the Idaho Senate that would fine government entities for flying flags not approved by the Legislature.
House Bill 561 would impose a $2,000 daily fine per flag for violations and authorize enforcement by Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador. The legislation is widely seen as targeting the display of LGBTQ+ pride flags on government property.
In a statement, the ACLU of Idaho said the bill infringes on First Amendment rights, arguing that banning certain flags is “a dangerous step toward controlling how people think and speak in public places.” The organization also said displaying the pride flag communicates safety, value and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Ted Hill, has said the measure is intended to address actions by the Boise City Council, which previously designated the pride flag and organ donor flag as official city flags.
The legislation outlines a limited list of approved flags, primarily including U.S., state, and certain local government flags, as well as military and tribal flags. Only city or county flags adopted before 2023 would be allowed.
The Idaho Senate passed the bill on a 26-8 vote, with all Democrats and two Republicans opposed. It previously cleared the House but must return there for approval of Senate amendments before heading to Gov. Brad Little.
The ACLU of Idaho is urging residents to contact the governor’s office and request a veto of the bill.
