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H 444

APPROPRIATIONS – DEPARTMENT OF LANDS – Relates to the appropriation to the Department of Lands for fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 444 boosts Idaho's fire management funding by $46.8 million, enhancing firefighting capabilities and supporting resource protection and staffing needs.

Reported Signed by Governor on April 2, 2025 Session Law Chapter 264 Effective: 04/02/2025 SECTION 4; 07/01/2025 SECTION 1-3, 5 & 6
#appropriations #lands
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Bill Summary · H 444

Summary of House Bill 444 (H 444)

Overview

House Bill 444 (H 444) is an appropriations bill that allocates funding to the Idaho Department of Lands for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The bill aims to enhance the department's budget, particularly in areas related to fire management and resource protection.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of H 444 is to provide necessary funding for the Department of Lands to support various programs, including fire prevention and suppression, forest management, and security upgrades. The bill also addresses staffing needs and equipment upgrades to improve the department's operational efficiency.

Key Provisions

  • Appropriations: The bill appropriates additional funds for fiscal year 2026, including:

    • $6,806,000 for maintenance enhancements.
    • A supplemental enhancement of $40,000,000 from the General Fund to the Fire Suppression Deficiency Warrant Fund for fiscal year 2025.

  • Personnel: The bill authorizes an increase of three full-time equivalent (FTE) positions within the Department of Lands.

  • Fire Management Enhancements: Funding is allocated for:

    • A fire emergency support program manager.
    • A fire aviation section manager.
    • A statewide forest assessment program manager.
    • Fire detection cameras and equipment.
    • Replacement of the fire burn permit system.
    • Security upgrades and GIS enhancements.

  • Budget Adjustments: The bill includes adjustments to the budget, such as:

    • A net-zero salary split adjustment for Timber Protective Association (TPA) employees.
    • Funding for computer hardware replacements as recommended by the Office of Information Technology Systems.
    • Onetime bonuses for firefighters.

  • Conditions and Limitations: The appropriations are subject to specific conditions and limitations outlined in the bill.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: The bill primarily impacts the Idaho Department of Lands, its employees, and the communities affected by forest management and fire suppression activities.
  • Fire Suppression Funding: The significant allocation to the Fire Suppression Deficiency Warrant Fund is intended to bolster firefighting capabilities in response to increasing wildfire risks.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • Introduced on March 25, 2025.
    • Passed by the House and Senate, signed by the Governor on April 2, 2025.
    • Effective dates:
    • Section 4 became effective immediately upon passage.
    • Sections 1-3, 5, and 6 will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 444 represents a critical investment in Idaho's natural resource management and fire suppression efforts. By enhancing funding and resources for the Department of Lands, the bill aims to improve the state's preparedness and response to fire-related emergencies while supporting sustainable land management practices.

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

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