House Bill 710 requires public and school libraries to restrict access to materials deemed harmful to minors and makes them liable to a civil penalty of up to $250. Materials must be removed from public circulation within 30 days of a library receiving a written complaint about them. Idaho code defines “harmful to minors” as “patently offensive” depictions of nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement and sado-masochistic abuse.
Wednesday’s vote, despite the overwhelming 47-23 floor vote, included high emotions — as did Monday’s House State Affairs Committee hearing on the bill.
“Here we go again,” said Rep. Lori McCann (R-Lewiston) on the House floor Wednesday.
House Bill 710 is the third library bill brought before lawmakers this year and looks very similar to a bill vetoed by Gov. Brad Little in 2023.
On Feb. 23, the Senate rejected legislation seen widely as a moderate compromise bill, opening the door to more strident restrictions like those in House Bill 710.
The bill is co-sponsored by Rep. Jaron Crane (R-Nampa), House Speaker Mike Moyle (R-Star), and Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder (R-Boise). Crane was also a sponsor on the two previous library bills this year.
House Bill 710 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
