Committee backs bill to require Idaho law for construction projects built in Idaho

Sen. Todd Leahy (District 23) presented Senate Bill 1006 to the Senate Commerce and Human Resources Committee as a choice‑of‑law provision for private construction projects in Idaho. "If the project is being built here in Idaho then it's subject to Idaho law and subject to Idaho jurisdiction," Leahy said, urging a due‑pass recommendation.

Leahy told senators the bill is intended to prevent contract provisions that force Idaho contractors to litigate or arbitrate disputes under another state’s law or in another state’s courts. He said contractors sometimes face contract terms that specify the law of New York, California or other states, and the bill would provide a statutory backstop so Idaho projects are governed by Idaho law.

Sean Schupack, director of government affairs for the Idaho Associated General Contractors, testified in support, saying the change is "a very simple concept. Idaho construction projects should follow Idaho law," and asked the committee to support SB1006.

Committee members questioned scope and interaction with building codes and litigation in other jurisdictions. Leahy said building codes and public review remain governed by the applicable local inspection process and that the bill focuses on jurisdictional and contract law rather than substantive design or permitting standards.

Senator Nichols moved to send SB1006 to the Senate floor with a due‑pass recommendation; the motion was seconded by Senator Ward‑Engelking and carried by voice vote. The transcript does not record a roll‑call tally.