Antidiscrimination bill passes the House with supermajority vote
Feb 05, 2026
On Thursday, the Idaho House of Representatives passed House Bill 557, a bill banning local anti-discrimination laws and ordinances, with a supermajority vote of 53 in favor, 16 against, and one absent.During the hearing, the bi
ll's sponsor, Rep. Bruce Skaug (R - District 10), used various examples to show how the ordinances have resulted in unnecessary litigation and personal conflicts.Rep. Richard Cheatum (R - District 28A) was one of the few republicans to oppose the bill, saying that local governments should have the right to "determine their own future."Rep. Illana Rubel (D - District 18) also opposed the bill, saying that local protections help Idaho attract the best talent to the Gem State.The bill now moves to the Senate, where it will receive a floor vote. If passed with a 2/3 majority by the Senate, HB-557 would become law without facing a possible veto from Governor Brad Little.WATCH THE FULL HOUSE FLOOR HEARING AND VOTE: Idaho House of Representatives approves HB-557
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