Idaho Bills

Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding the Office of the State Public Defender and indigent public defense in this state.

This legislation provides beneficial updates and clarity regarding the State Public Defender (SPD). The legislation contains intent language for the development and implementation of a transition plan pertaining to the use of county facilities. It reflects current case law specifying that the SPD pays for transcripts they request. The bill provides for development of workload standards in accordance with certain principles to provide constitutional and efficient representation. This further clarifies the key role of the District Public Defenders and their leadership responsibilities in managing public defense services in their districts which will promote efficiency and responsiveness at a more localized level. This legislation provides for compensation that is more aligned with the local market and case complexity. It specifies certain office building expenses are the responsibility of the counties and specifies the types of cases covered by the SPD.