“We are deeply disappointed that the Governor chose to sign HB 440, 500, and 509 into law.” The Idaho House and Senate Democratic caucus explained. “We are grateful that the Governor chose to veto HB 340 – this bill would have put Idaho children in danger of abuse during their most vulnerable moments of recovery. In his justification for the veto, Governor Little discussed the importance of protecting Idaho children from harm, and noted that this legislation conflicted with that goal. We wish that Governor Little had exercised that same compassion and concern in connection with other legislation passed by the legislature this year.”

“From the moment this bill was introduced in committee, Democrats heeded the warnings of the overwhelming majority of those testifying against HB340, and warned our legislative colleagues that HB 340 put Idaho children in jeopardy. Unfortunately, most Republican members would not listen to these concerns. Thankfully, the Governor has chosen to stop this harmful legislation from becoming law. It’s obvious from his decision, however, that he has prioritized certain groups of Idahoans over others. He is willing to protect some Idaho children from harm but is complicit in putting other Idahoans children at risk of trauma, abuse, and suicide. We hope that, in the future, Governor Little will focus on protecting and lifting up all Idahoans.”