Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

House Bill 410 authorizes public school districts and charter schools in Idaho to employ or accept volunteer school chaplains to provide services and support to students, parents, and school staff. These chaplains may offer programs or assistance as determined appropriate by the school district and are not required to hold state educator certification or licensure. Local school boards have full discretion over the role, selection, and oversight of chaplains.

The bill also amends existing law to require school chaplains—whether paid or volunteer—to undergo the same criminal background checks as other adults who may have unsupervised access to students. It does not mandate religious instruction or impose any theological requirements, and all implementation decisions remain under local control. The bill includes an emergency clause and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:

House Bill 410 strongly reflects the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s commitment to religious liberty, local control in education, and moral development rooted in traditional values. By allowing—but not requiring—chaplain services in public schools, the bill provides a voluntary support system that districts and families can use at their discretion. It empowers communities to incorporate faith-based mentorship without creating mandates or expanding state bureaucracy. The bill includes safeguards such as background checks and leaves all policy decisions to local boards, ensuring constitutional integrity. For these reasons, H0410 is rated +1.