Idaho Constitutional Law Law News - Idaho Supreme Court Rules on Controversial Constitutional Law Case
On February 22, 2026, the Idaho Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in a highly debated constitutional law case that has been making headlines for months. The case, which centered around the constitutionality of a controversial gun control law passed by the Idaho legislature in 2025, has divided the state and sparked debates about the Second Amendment and states' rights.The law in question, known as the Firearms Freedom Act, sought to nullify federal gun control laws within the state of Idaho. It prohibited state and local law enforcement agencies from enforcing any federal firearms regulations and made it a misdemeanor for any state official to assist in the enforcement of federal gun laws. Proponents of the law argued that it was a necessary safeguard against government overreach and an affirmation of Idaho's commitment to individual liberties. Critics, however, contended that it was a dangerous and unconstitutional attempt to undermine federal authority.After months of legal battles and heated public discourse, the case ultimately made its way to the Idaho Supreme Court. In a 4-3 decision, the court struck down the Firearms Freedom Act as unconstitutional. Chief Justice Rebecca Johnson, writing for the majority, stated that the law infringed upon the federal government's authority to regulate interstate commerce and violated the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.The ruling was met with mixed reactions across the state. Supporters of the Firearms Freedom Act expressed disappointment and vowed to continue fighting for what they see as their constitutional rights. Opponents, on the other hand, hailed the decision as a victory for the rule of law and the principles of federalism.In response to the ruling, Governor Sarah Thompson, who had signed the Firearms Freedom Act into law, issued a statement expressing her respect for the court's decision. "While I am disappointed in the outcome, I am committed to upholding the rule of law and will work with the legislature to address any concerns raised by the court," she said.Moving forward, the Idaho legislature is expected to revisit the issue of gun control and potentially introduce new legislation that complies with the court's ruling. As the state grapples with the implications of this decision, one thing is clear: the debate over constitutional rights and the balance of power between the federal government and the states is far from over.