Committee returns antisemitism resolution to sponsor after members raise concerns

Representative Brent Crane presented RS 32,552, a resolution addressing antisemitism, and told the committee the measure defines antisemitism and would add it to Idaho law. Crane said he had consulted with members of the Jewish community and that the measure was intended to make clear that antisemitism is not tolerated in Idaho.

Several committee members expressed concerns about singling out one group for special mention when existing law already prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion. "I think religion covers the Jewish people as well," Representative Crane said in response to that line of questioning. Representative Barbieri said she was concerned about singling out any group for special treatment and said she would have "serious questions" if the resolution received a full hearing.

Representative Achilles proposed a substitute motion to add the words "sexual orientation, gender identity" after the listing for religion, which would broaden the language beyond antisemitism. After a brief at‑ease to allow members to caucus, members returned and debate continued about potential edits. Representative Scogg (identified in the transcript as the member offering an amended substitute) moved that RS 32,552 be returned to the sponsor "It needs too much work and I don't like isolating certain groups of people, whatever that may be," the member said.

The committee voted to return RS 32,552 to the sponsor; the chair declared the motion carried by voice vote. No formal amendments were adopted and no public testimony was recorded during the discussion.

The committee's action leaves the resolution without further committee consideration until the sponsor reintroduces a revised version or requests another hearing.