Idaho Governor Signs Law Permitting Death Penalty for Child Sex Crimes
BOISE, Idaho — Governor Brad Little has signed House Bill 380 into law, allowing Idaho courts to sentence individuals to death if convicted of lewd conduct involving children under the age of 12. The law takes effect on July 1, 2025.
The legislation introduces capital punishment as a sentencing option for certain child sex crimes, provided that the defendant meets at least three out of 17 qualifying factors. These include committing multiple acts of lewd conduct, using physical force, or transmitting a sexually transmitted disease to the victim.
House Bill 380 also increases penalties for other offenses involving the sexual abuse of minors. The new law positions Idaho among a small number of states pursuing more severe sentencing options for crimes involving children.
Governor Little stated that the law is intended to reflect the serious and long-term harm caused by such crimes. He also noted that Idaho now designates execution by firing squad as the state’s primary method of carrying out the death penalty, which would apply under this law.
Representative Bruce Skaug of Nampa, who sponsored the bill, emphasized the goal of deterring future offenses and strengthening protections for minors. Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador also expressed support for the law, stating it aims to enhance safety for children and future generations.
