Idaho currently holds a copyright on the Idaho Code – the laws of the state, Rep. Luke Malek, R-Coeur d’Alene, told the House Health & Welfare Committee this morning. “If ignorance of the law is no defense, people ought to have unfettered access to the laws,” Malek said. A bill crafted by University of Idaho law students who have been working with Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, and brought Malek in as a co-sponsor, “Makes it so that all laws are public domain,” Malek said. Both Malek and Rubel are attorneys.

Rep. John Rusche, D-Lewiston, asked “Why was it copyrighted in the first place?” Malek responded, “Mr. Chairman, I’m not sure.” With that, Rusche moved to introduce the bill and the committee agreed unanimously; Chairman Fred Wood, R-Burley, said the measure likely will be assigned to another House committee.