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H 173

ALFALFA AND CLOVER SEED – Amends existing law to revise the composition of the commission and to increase assessments.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill H 173 boosts Idaho's Alfalfa and Clover Seed Commission by adding a member and raising assessments from 1/4¢ to 1¢ per pound to enhance industry support.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 21, 2025 Session Law Chapter 138 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · H 173

Summary of House Bill H 173: Alfalfa and Clover Seed Commission Amendments

Bill Number: H 173
Title: Alfalfa and Clover Seed – Amends existing law to revise the composition of the commission and to increase assessments.
Status: Reported Signed by Governor on March 21, 2025
Effective Date: July 1, 2025
Introduced: February 7, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Agriculture, Commissions

Purpose and Intent

House Bill H 173 aims to amend the existing structure and funding mechanism of the Alfalfa Seed and Clover Seed Commission in Idaho. The primary objectives of the bill are to:

  • Revise the composition of the commission to better represent stakeholders in the alfalfa and clover seed industries.
  • Increase the assessment fees levied on alfalfa and clover seed to support the commission's activities.

Key Provisions

Commission Composition Changes

  • The commission will expand from six to seven members:
    • Five members will be alfalfa seed or clover seed growers.
    • One member will represent the University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
    • One member will be an alfalfa and clover seed dealer.

Assessment Increase

  • The assessment on alfalfa and clover seed will increase from one-fourth cent (1/4¢) to one cent ($0.01) per pound of clean seed.
  • This increase is intended to provide additional funding for the commission's operations and initiatives.

Technical Corrections

  • The bill includes technical corrections to existing statutes related to the commission and its assessments.

Impact

Affected Parties

  • Growers and Dealers: The changes will directly impact alfalfa and clover seed growers and dealers in Idaho, as they will be subject to the new assessment rates.
  • University of Idaho: The inclusion of a representative from the University of Idaho College of Agriculture and Life Sciences aims to enhance research and educational collaboration within the commission.

Fiscal Impact

  • According to the fiscal note, the legislation is not expected to result in any increase or decrease in revenue or additional expenditures at the state or local government levels. Therefore, it has no fiscal impact.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 7, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Agricultural Affairs Committee.
  • March 21, 2025: Signed by the Governor and reported as Session Law Chapter 138.
  • Effective Date: The provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill H 173 represents a significant update to the governance and funding of the Alfalfa and Clover Seed Commission in Idaho. By expanding the commission's membership and increasing assessment fees, the bill aims to strengthen the support for the alfalfa and clover seed industries, ensuring they have the necessary resources for growth and development.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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