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H 450

APPROPRIATIONS – DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME – Relates to the appropriation to the Department of Fish and Game for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 450 seeks $18.98 million for Idaho's Fish and Game to boost operations, improve infrastructure, and support habitat restoration for wildlife and local communities.

Returned from Senate Failed; Filed in the office of the Chief Clerk
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Bill Summary · H 450

Summary of House Bill 450 (H 450)

Bill Overview

  • Title: Appropriations – Department of Fish and Game
  • Bill Number: H 450
  • Introduced: March 25, 2025
  • Status: Returned from Senate Failed; Filed in the office of the Chief Clerk
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Appropriations for the Department of Fish and Game for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 450 aims to provide additional funding to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) to enhance its operational capabilities and support various projects for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The bill seeks to address maintenance needs, improve infrastructure, and support habitat restoration efforts.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following appropriations and enhancements:

  1. Total Additional Funding:

    • $18,984,900 for the maintenance budget, with a breakdown of:
      • Ongoing increase: $2,216,500
      • One-time increase: $17,568,400

  2. Specific Allocations Include:

    • License Sales System Contract Costs: $239,000
    • Final Year of Albeni Falls Mitigation Projects: $2,160,000
    • Recreational Access Lease Cost Increases: Amount not specified
    • Phase Two of Website Overhaul: $550,000
    • Hatchery Improvements: $750,000
    • Regional Office Renovations and Improvements: Totaling approximately $3,626,700
    • Fire Rehabilitation Funds: $800,000 for Valley Fire damage mitigation in Ada County
    • Support for Seasonal Employees: To assist in habitat restoration efforts

  3. Reappropriation Authority:

    • Allows for the reappropriation of unspent funds from previous years for deferred maintenance projects and other specified uses.

  4. Emergency Declaration:

    • The bill declares an emergency, allowing certain provisions to take effect immediately upon passage.

Impact

The bill is designed to benefit the following groups and areas:
- Department of Fish and Game: Enhanced operational capacity and infrastructure improvements.
- Wildlife and Habitat: Support for habitat restoration and management efforts, particularly in areas affected by recent fires.
- Local Communities: Improved recreational access and facilities, potentially benefiting local economies through enhanced outdoor activities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and passed in the House but was ultimately returned from the Senate with a failed vote (16-19).
  • The timeline of legislative actions includes multiple readings and committee recommendations, indicating a thorough review process before the Senate's decision.

Conclusion

House Bill 450 represents a significant investment in the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, aimed at enhancing its capabilities and addressing pressing needs in wildlife management and habitat restoration. Despite its failure in the Senate, the bill highlights ongoing legislative efforts to support environmental and recreational initiatives in Idaho.

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

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