The Idaho Legislature wrapped up its 2026 session having passed more than 350 new laws — the highest number in the last five years. The vast majority took effect on July 1, 2026, bringing noticeable changes for drivers, students, homeowners, businesses, and the criminal justice system statewide.Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful new laws signed by Governor Brad Little.Transportation & Driving
- Semi-trucks now allowed 80 mph on interstates (HB 664)
Large trucks (five or more axles and over 26,000 pounds) can now match the speed limit of passenger vehicles on Idaho’s interstates (up to 80 mph on roads like I-84). Previously, they were limited to 10 mph below the posted limit. The goal is to reduce speed differentials and improve traffic flow, though some safety concerns have been raised by drivers. - No more vehicle registration stickers (HB 533)
Idaho is eliminating the requirement to display registration stickers on license plates. Law enforcement will verify registration electronically. The state expects to save about $300,000 annually in printing and materials costs. - License plate replacement rules eased (HB 577)
Drivers no longer need to replace plates every 10 years if they remain legible.
- Mandatory moment of silence (HB 623)
All public schools must begin each school day with a 60-second moment of silence for reflection, prayer, or quiet activity. Staff cannot suggest how students should use the time. - Restrictions on teachers’ unions (HB 516)
Public schools can no longer use taxpayer-funded resources (such as payroll deduction for dues, district property for union meetings, or paid leave) to support union political or legislative activities. - AI guidelines in classrooms (SB 1227)
School districts must develop policies for artificial intelligence use in education. The state is also partnering with companies like Microsoft and Micron, plus the Idaho National Laboratory, to provide free AI training and resources.
- Short-term rentals protected (HB 583) — Cities and counties have limited ability to heavily regulate Airbnb/Vrbo-style properties beyond basic health and safety rules.
- Easier accessory dwelling units (ADUs) (SB 1354) — Larger cities must allow at least one ADU per lot in most residential zones.
- Smaller lot sizes allowed (SB 1352) — Cities over 10,000 people cannot ban compact single-family housing developments with smaller lots.
- Firing squad becomes primary execution method (HB 37 from 2025 session)
Idaho is the first state to make the firing squad the main method of execution, replacing lethal injection as the default. New protocols and confidentiality protections for participants (HB 803) also take effect. - No statute of limitations for certain child sex crimes (HB 681)
Aggravated lewd conduct with a child and producing sexually exploitative material of a child can now be prosecuted at any time. - “Son of Sam” law strengthened (SB 1232)
Profits from crimes (books, movies, etc.) must go to victims rather than the offender. - Bathroom bill (HB 752)
Requires use of restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities based on biological sex in government buildings, schools, and many private businesses. The law faced a preliminary injunction from a federal judge and is partially blocked. - Parental notification for social transitioning (HB 822)
Teachers, healthcare providers, and childcare staff must notify parents within 72 hours if a minor requests a different name, pronouns, or social transition. The bill also restricts certain actions without parental consent.
- Social media protections for minors (HB 542)
Large platforms must obtain parental consent for accounts of children 16 and under, remove addictive features (infinite scroll, autoplay, etc.), and implement stronger privacy settings. - Conversational AI safety rules (SB 1297)
New requirements for AI chatbots, including handling suicidal ideation, disclosing they are AI, and restrictions for users under 18. - Changes to state agency leadership (SB 1300)
Directors of the Departments of Parks and Recreation, Fish and Game, and Transportation will now be appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.
