(1) There is hereby created the constitutional defense council which shall consist of the governor, the president pro tempore of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives and the attorney general.
(2)  The purpose of the council includes, but is not limited to, restoring, maintaining and advancing the sovereignty and authority over issues that affect this state and the well-being of its citizens.

Terms Used In Idaho Code 67-6301

  • President pro tempore: A constitutionally recognized officer of the Senate who presides over the chamber in the absence of the Vice President. The President Pro Tempore (or, "president for a time") is elected by the Senate and is, by custom, the Senator of the majority party with the longest record of continuous service.
  • State: when applied to the different parts of the United States, includes the District of Columbia and the territories; and the words "United States" may include the District of Columbia and territories. See Idaho Code 73-114
(3)  Meetings of the council may be called by any member and decisions of the council shall be made by a majority vote of the members.
(4)  The council, in the name of the state or its citizens, may examine and challenge by legal action, legislation or any other legal means:
(a)  Federal mandates.
(b)  Court rulings.
(c)  The authority granted to, or assumed by, the federal government.
(d)  Laws, regulations and practices of the federal government.
(e)  Any other activity that is deemed appropriate by the council.
(f)  Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the council may hire legal counsel for the purpose of this chapter and may utilize staff and resources within state government.
(5)  There is hereby established in the state treasury the constitutional defense council fund which shall consist of appropriations, gifts, grants and other council moneys. Moneys in the council fund are continuously appropriated and shall be used for purposes enumerated in this chapter.