Statement on Anti-discrimination Protections

February 2026

The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force has joined with human rights organizations in Boundary, Kootenai and Latah counties in opposition to potential legislative changes to anti-discrimination protections in Idaho.

Currently, in January/February 2026, the Idaho Legislature is considering stripping away fundamental protections and undermining the authority of local governments to represent and protect their residents.

There are those who seek to nullify local anti-discrimination ordinances including protections based upon sexual orientation and gender identity. If successful, cities and counties would be forced to repeal protections already enacted and relied on in their jurisdictions.

It is not true, as some have suggested, that anti-discrimination protections already exist under state law for LGBTQ+ individuals. In fact, the effort to amend the Idaho Human Rights Act to include them as protected classes has, for over a decade, been unsuccessful.

What is true, is that state-wide mandates contradict the long-standing principle that government is most effective when it is closest to the people.

We oppose any legislation that would nullify city and county ordinances already in place affirming that no person should face discrimination in housing, employment or public accommodations. Repealing such protections sends a damaging message that Idaho is willing to tolerate discrimination and silence local voices, negatively impacting businesses and economic growth.

In addition, we oppose government overreach that undermines local governance and weakens human rights protections.

We support protecting the rights of EVERYONE from discrimination. We are working with local individuals and community groups to help ensure anti-discrimination protections are in place in Bonner County.