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H 445

APPROPRIATIONS – DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES – Relates to the appropriation to the Department of Water Resources for fiscal year 2026.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 445 allocates $31 million to enhance Idaho's water management, adding staff and funding for aquifer monitoring and infrastructure projects to ensure sustainable resources.

Reported Signed by Governor on April 3, 2025 Session Law Chapter 282 Effective: 07/01/2025
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Bill Summary · H 445

Summary of House Bill 445 (H 445)

Overview

House Bill 445 (H 445) is a legislative measure aimed at appropriating additional funds to the Idaho Department of Water Resources for the fiscal year 2026. The bill was introduced on March 25, 2025, and was signed by the Governor on April 3, 2025, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of H 445 is to enhance the maintenance budget of the Department of Water Resources, focusing on critical areas such as aquifer monitoring, water administration, and infrastructure projects. The bill seeks to ensure the sustainable management of water resources in Idaho, addressing both immediate needs and long-term planning.

Key Provisions

  • Total Appropriation: The bill appropriates an additional $31,097,700 to the Department of Water Resources, increasing the total budget to $113,353,100 for FY 2026.
  • Full-Time Equivalent Positions: Authorizes the addition of four (4.00) full-time equivalent positions to support water administration.
  • Funding Allocations:
    • Aquifer Monitoring: $716,000 will be transferred from the Revolving Development Fund to the Aquifer Planning and Management Fund for aquifer monitoring and measurement.
    • Water Management Fund: $30,000,000 will be transferred from the General Fund to the Water Management Fund for various water infrastructure projects.
  • Reappropriation Authority: Allows for the reappropriation of unexpended balances from the ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Fund for water infrastructure projects.
  • Filing Fees: Establishes that funds appropriated for general stream adjudications will count toward filing fees for water right claims.
  • Project Criteria: Funds allocated for water projects will prioritize:
    • Aquifer recharge and groundwater management.
    • Development and rehabilitation of water storage and conveyance systems.
    • Improvements to water supply and delivery efficiency.
    • Emergency repairs and upgrades to water infrastructure.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly enhance the capacity of the Department of Water Resources to manage Idaho's water resources effectively. Key stakeholders affected include:
- Water Resource Managers: Enhanced staffing and funding will improve operational capabilities.
- Local Communities: Investments in water infrastructure will benefit residents by ensuring reliable water supply and management.
- Environmental Agencies: Focus on aquifer health and sustainability aligns with broader environmental goals.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 25, 2025
  • Passed House: March 27, 2025
  • Passed Senate: April 2, 2025
  • Signed by Governor: April 3, 2025
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 445 represents a significant investment in Idaho's water management infrastructure, aiming to address both current and future water resource challenges. By appropriating substantial funds and authorizing new positions, the bill seeks to enhance the Department of Water Resources' ability to monitor and manage the state's vital water resources effectively.

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

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