WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 1403

APPROPRIATIONS – DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY – Relates to the appropriation to the Department of Environmental Quality for fiscal year 2027.

68th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session (2026)

Idaho appropriates fiscal year 2027 funding to the Department of Environmental Quality, determining resources available for environmental regulation and monitoring statewide.

Signed by Governor on 03/27/26 Session Law Chapter 214 Effective: 07/01/2026
#appropriations #environment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 1403

Legislative bill overview

S 1403 is an appropriations bill that allocates funding to Idaho's Department of Environmental Quality for fiscal year 2027. The bill was passed by both chambers of the legislature and signed into law by the Governor, becoming effective July 1, 2026.

Why is this important

Appropriations bills directly determine how much money state agencies receive to operate, hire staff, conduct inspections, and enforce environmental regulations. The DEQ's budget directly affects water quality monitoring, air quality standards, waste management oversight, and environmental permitting in Idaho.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding level adequacy – Without knowing the dollar amount, it's unclear whether DEQ received level funding, increases, or cuts relative to prior years, which affects regulatory capacity
  • Environmental enforcement priorities – Budget allocation reveals which environmental issues (mining, agriculture, industrial pollution, conservation) the state prioritizes
  • Staffing and inspection capacity – Reduced funding often leads to fewer field inspections and delayed permit reviews, impacting both industry and environmental protection

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

Sign in to ask a question.