By Ruth Brown, Idaho Reports

The Senate State Affairs Committee introduced a new version of a bill Friday that would allow anyone with an enhanced carry license to carry a gun in a school, so long as they’re following school district policy.

Sponsor Sen. Jim Guthrie, R-McCammon, said the bill is more restrictive than a similar bill that passed the House earlier this session. It would require an annual training for those who want to carry a gun in schools, in addition to having their enhanced carry license. It would also allow the local school districts to put policies in place.

Should the bill pass, school districts would have until Jan. 1, 2026, to have a gun policy that is effective by July 1, 2026. The districts must work with staff, parents, community members and law enforcement in creating the policy.

“This provides local control,” Guthrie told the committee.

Some school districts already have local policies in place on the subject.

The bill that passed the House in January, HB 415, would have been a sweeping statewide policy for all school districts.

Rep. Ted Hill, R-Eagle, who sponsored that legislation, is listed as a co-sponsor on Guthrie’s bill.

It would require that any “gun free school zone” signs be accompanied by additional signage to indicate there are school staff who are armed in accordance with state law.

Guthrie’s bill also clarifies that peace officers may carry a gun on campus whether on or off duty.

The bill would impact both public and private schools.

The committee introduced the bill in a voice vote and it will get a full hearing at a later date.

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