Story perspectives

Idaho Bill Expands Sexual Contact Definition for Officers

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Idaho House Bill 696 would broaden the definition of sexual contact to include any inappropriate contact by correctional officers, aligning with federal standards.
The bill would replace Idaho's current approach of penalizing only specific acts with expanded accountability for offenders.
The House Judiciary Committee backed the bill unanimously and a vote is expected soon.
Advocates, including abuse survivors, say the reform protects incarcerated women, noting Idaho's high female incarceration rate.

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Story summary

Idaho House Bill 696 would broaden the definition of sexual contact to include any inappropriate contact by correctional officers, aligning with federal standards.
The bill would replace Idaho's current approach of penalizing only specific acts with expanded accountability for offenders.
The House Judiciary Committee backed the bill unanimously and a vote is expected soon.
Advocates, including abuse survivors, say the reform protects incarcerated women, noting Idaho's high female incarceration rate.