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Rep. Jeff Cornelis introduces RS 32,353 to clarify indecent-exposure law after Nampa parade
Summary
Representative Jeff Cornelis introduced RS 32,353 to revise Idaho’s indecent-exposure statute after complaints from a Nampa bridal parade; opponents said the draft could target transgender Idahoans and others who have had breast surgery.
Representative Jeff Cornelis, R-Nampa, introduced RS 32,353 to the House State Affairs Committee, saying the draft would “clean up language in statute” to clarify what constitutes indecent exposure after complaints arising from a Nampa bridal parade.
Cornelis told the committee the proposed language would clarify that exposing “developed female breasts,” certain altered male breasts and artificial breasts could be charged as a misdemeanor under existing statute. He said local law enforcement and a city council member from Nampa asked him to bring the change after a parade in which an individual displayed what Cornelis described as an augmented breast and police were unable to take action.
The bill summary Cornelis delivered noted prosecutors and law enforcement support; Cornelis said he has a letter from the prosecuting attorney indicating the language is defensible.
Representative Mike Keeley spoke against introducing the RS, saying the language “explicitly targets trans Idahoans” and will sweep in people who have had breast surgery, as well as third parties—“plastic surgeons are also targeted,” he said. Keeley also warned the draft could capture “anyone with a set of truck nuts hanging off of their rig” under an indecent-exposure charge.
After brief consideration, Representative Polanco moved to introduce RS 32,353. The committee voted to introduce the language; Representative Keeley and Representative Green were recorded on the minutes as voting no. The committee chair recorded the motion as carried.
The sponsor and opponents said they expect further debate if RS 32,353 is scheduled for a full committee hearing, during which additional testimony—such as from the Nampa city council member Cornelis referenced—would be allowed.
