Idaho Legislature Approves Bill Limiting Non-Emergency Services for Illegal Immigrants
BOISE, Idaho — House Bill 135, a measure aimed at restricting certain services for undocumented immigrants in Idaho, has passed both chambers of the state legislature and is now awaiting a decision from Governor Brad Little.
The bill maintains access to emergency medical care but would end the availability of several non-emergency services for individuals who are not lawfully present in the United States. These include short-term housing, food assistance, crisis counseling, soup kitchens, and certain prenatal and postnatal healthcare benefits.
The legislation requires individuals to verify their legal presence in the U.S. to access these services, including immunizations from regional health districts.
During the Senate debate, co-sponsor Sen. Phil Hart cited the example of U.S.-born children of undocumented parents, stating that while the children would still qualify for benefits such as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, their parents would not. Hart emphasized that the bill’s intent is to limit taxpayer-funded benefits to those legally residing in the country.
Opposition to the bill centered on potential public health and humanitarian impacts. Sen. Jim Guthrie raised concerns about disease prevention, suggesting that restricting vaccines could affect overall public health. Supporters of the bill, including Sen. Bradon Shippy, argued that vaccines and other services could still be accessed through personal or employer-based payment.
The bill was approved by the Senate on Tuesday and formally sent to the governor’s office on Wednesday. Gov. Little has five days to either sign the bill into law or issue a veto. If enacted, the law will take effect on July 5, 2025.
