BOISE, ID – The Boise City Council has approved a resolution to formally recognize the Pride flag as one of the city’s official flags, a move that pushes back against a recently enacted state law limiting which flags can be displayed by government entities.  The resolution passed on a 5-1 vote at a meeting on Tuesday evening.

Idaho House Bill 96, passed by the Idaho Legislature earlier this year, restricts flag displays on public property to only the U.S. flag, state flag, municipal flags, military flags, and the POW/MIA flag. The new law has drawn criticism from civil rights advocates and local leaders who view it as an attempt to suppress expressions of inclusion and support for marginalized communities.

Mayor Lauren McLean announced the proposed resolution in a public statement.  “The City of Boise will continue to fly the flags on City Hall Plaza that represent our community and speak to our values of caring for people and welcoming all,” said McLean. “This resolution formalizes which flags are considered the official flags of our city.”

Council President Colin Nash echoed the mayor’s remarks, saying the resolution aims to ensure all residents “feel seen, respected, and welcome” in Boise.

To prepare for any legal pushback, the city accepted pro bono legal representation from attorneys at Boise law firm Holland & Hart. This volunteer legal support would help the city defend its decision if it is challenged under the new state law.

The controversy reflects a broader national conversation about the role of local governments in affirming support for LGBTQ+ communities, especially in politically conservative states.