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H 419

APPROPRIATIONS – DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION – Relates to the appropriation to the Department of Parks and Recreation for fiscal year 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 419 allocates $8.1M to enhance Idaho's parks, adding staff, improving operations, and boosting maintenance for better public access and services.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 31, 2025 Session Law Chapter 237 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · H 419

Summary of House Bill 419: Appropriations for the Department of Parks and Recreation

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 419 aims to appropriate additional funds to the Department of Parks and Recreation for fiscal year 2026. The bill seeks to enhance the maintenance budget, improve park operations, and support various projects and personnel needs within the department.

Key Provisions

  • Total Appropriation: The bill provides an additional $8,135,700 to the Department of Parks and Recreation, bringing the total budget for the department to $57,263,500 for FY 2026.
  • Personnel Enhancements:
    • Authorization for 5 additional full-time equivalent (FTE) positions.
    • Pay increases for seasonal employees and targeted positions.
  • Operational Improvements:
    • Funding for a compact wheel loader and a responsible OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) media campaign.
    • Specific improvements at Bear Lake State Park and Lake Cascade State Park.
  • Program Consolidation: Streamlining of existing programs to improve efficiency.
  • Exemptions: The bill exempts the appropriation from program transfer limitations, allowing for more flexible fund allocation between park operations and capital development.

Fiscal Impact

  • The ongoing increase to the maintenance budget is $1,135,200, while $7,000,500 is designated as a one-time expenditure.
  • The overall budget enhancements represent a 2.6% increase from the previous fiscal year.

Affected Entities

  • The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the Department of Parks and Recreation, park personnel, and the public who utilize state parks and recreational facilities.
  • The bill also impacts local communities and economies that rely on tourism and recreational activities facilitated by state parks.

Timeline and Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: March 19, 2025
  • Governor's Approval: Signed by the Governor on March 31, 2025.
  • Effective Date: The provisions of the bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.
  • The bill underwent several legislative actions, including readings, committee recommendations, and votes in both the House and Senate, culminating in its signing into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 419 represents a significant investment in Idaho's parks and recreation infrastructure, aiming to enhance operational capabilities, improve employee compensation, and facilitate better services for the public. The bill reflects a commitment to maintaining and improving the state's natural resources and recreational opportunities.

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

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