Despite the passing of House Bill 96 during the 2025 legislative session which restricts government entities from flying any flags other than the U.S., state, and local flags, along with certain military and tribal flags, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean continues to display the Pride flag at City Hall. She also personally removed conservative flag Appeal to Heaven flag after protest of the Pride flag. Read Idaho Statesman report here.
From Senator Tammy Nichol’s Substack:
The law itself doesn’t carry immediate enforcement penalties, but Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador has made it clear that the city is in violation and has urged Boise to comply. While there are no direct consequences outlined within the bill, the Attorney General encouraged citizens to hold the Mayor accountable, something I fully support. The Mayor, however, has refused to follow the law, framing her actions as a defense of free expression. But the truth is, her decision to continue flying these flags sends the wrong message: that laws can be ignored when they don’t align with personal beliefs.
Watch Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador urge Boise Mayor remove Pride flag.
Watch Boise Mayor’s response to Idaho Attorney General letter to remove Pride flag.
For now, it appears there is a stand-off between the Mayor’s office and the Attorney General. MVLA will report as this story develops.
