Rating: +1

Bill Summary:

Senate Bill 1105 amends Idaho Code to enhance support for firearms safety education through the creation of a specialty “Don’t Tread on Me” license plate and the establishment of a dedicated firearms safety grant fund. Revenue from plate sales, along with other public or private contributions, will be directed to this fund, which is administered by a newly created Idaho Firearms Safety Education Committee. The committee, appointed by the Attorney General, includes a mix of legislators, law enforcement, firearms instructors, and parents, and operates without legislative appropriation.

The bill encourages public school districts to offer in-person elective firearms safety education using curricula from reputable sources such as the Department of Fish and Game, law enforcement, or national firearms associations. Courses must be taught by qualified instructors and are supported via competitive grants from the fund. Administrative responsibilities for managing grant applications are shared between the State Board of Education and the committee. No taxpayer funds are used to support the program.

Reason for Rating:
S1105 strongly aligns with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s core values of constitutional rights, limited government, and personal responsibility. It supports the Second Amendment through voluntary education, encourages civic-minded participation in firearm safety, and avoids taxpayer burdens by leveraging specialty plate revenue and private donations. The structure respects local control of education and does not impose mandates on school districts. The bill exemplifies how public-private partnerships and optional programs can advance conservative principles without expanding state power.