Are your security volunteers legally protected?
Originally reported in Law & Ministry Update (Vol 4 - November 2025) - case reviewed by the Legal Assist team.
4 min read
State Law
Local Implications
Many pastors and ministry leaders worry about what could happen if a volunteer steps in to stop a threat. Even when someone acts responsibly and in good faith, the risk of a lawsuit can make ministries hesitant to organize or empower volunteer security teams. Idaho recently addressed this concern with new legislation designed to protect both volunteers and the ministries they serve when responding to threats or acts of violence.
What You Need to Know
Idaho’s House Bill 601 (2024) grants civil immunity to volunteer security personnel serving in religious organizations and the ministries that oversee them. In simple terms, immunity means these individuals and organizations generally cannot be sued for damages if they use reasonable force to protect others, even when that includes lethal force.
The law allows this protection to be asserted early in court proceedings, often stopping a lawsuit before it advances and sparing ministries from the cost and stress of prolonged litigation. HB 601 also extends this protection to the ministry itself, recognizing that churches and faith-based organizations often sponsor or supervise volunteer security efforts.
The protection applies only to reasonable, good-faith actions taken to defend others, ensuring that well-intentioned volunteers and ministries are not punished for making swift, necessary decisions in moments of crisis.
What Your Ministry Can Do
Review Security Policies: Even where immunity laws exist, well-documented policies that are clearly written and updated help demonstrate that your volunteers act under guidance and accountability.
Clarify Volunteer Roles and Training: To support legal protections, define who is authorized to serve in a security capacity and what level of training or certification is expected.
Stay Informed About State Laws: Idaho’s HB 601 reflects a growing national trend toward shielding volunteers from liability. Track legislative developments in your own state and consult legal counsel or your insurer.
Why This Matters
This new Idaho law reflects a growing national movement to protect good-faith volunteers serving in churches and ministries. Across the country, more states are adopting—or considering—laws that shield volunteers from civil liability when they serve religious or charitable organizations. Some focus broadly on volunteer service, while others address security activities specifically. Despite these differences, the shared goal is clear: to help ministries plan for safety without constant fear of being sued.
Although this law applies only in Idaho, it signals a recent trend in public policy. Lawmakers nationwide are beginning to recognize the unique challenges of keeping places of worship and faith-based programs safe. For pastors and ministry leaders everywhere, Idaho’s HB 601 is both an encouragement and a sign of momentum toward greater legal support for faith-driven service.
Status: The legislation is currently in full force and effect. As of this writing, there have been no reported legal challenges or amendments that have altered the law’s status.
Date: July 1, 2024
Posted November 2025.
While the information provided in this resource is intended to be helpful, it does not constitute legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney in your area. Please note that no attorney/client relationship is established through this process, and no legal advice will be provided. We strongly recommend regular consultations with a licensed local attorney as part of your risk management program.