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H 302

FISH AND GAME – Amends existing law to provide for notification of a proposed transplant or relocation of wildlife and approval from a board of county commissioners if a hearing on the same is requested and to require testing of certain animals.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 302 ensures landowners in Idaho are notified of wildlife relocations, allowing them to voice concerns through public hearings, enhancing transparency and involvement.

Reported Printed and Referred to Resources & Conservation
#animals #counties #fishandgame #livestock #naturalresources #wildlife
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Bill Summary · H 302

Summary of House Bill 302 (H 302)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 302 (H 302) aims to enhance transparency and public involvement in the transplanting and relocation of wildlife in Idaho. The bill seeks to protect the rights of landowners and public grazing permit holders by ensuring they are notified of proposed wildlife relocation efforts. It also establishes a framework for public hearings if objections arise regarding such projects.

Key Provisions

  • Notification Requirements: The bill mandates that the Director of the Department of Fish and Game must notify county commissioners, affected landowners, and public grazing permittees about proposed wildlife transplant or relocation projects.

  • Public Hearing Process: If any affected party submits a written objection within ten days of notification, the county commission is required to hold a public hearing. During this hearing, the commission will decide whether to approve, modify, or reject the proposed project.

  • Testing Requirements: The legislation also stipulates that certain animals imported, transported, or used for tracking purposes must be tested for specific diseases to prevent potential health risks to both wildlife and livestock.

  • Emergency Declaration: The bill includes a provision that allows for an emergency declaration, which would expedite the implementation of its provisions if necessary.

Affected Parties

  • Landowners and Grazing Permit Holders: The bill directly impacts private landowners and public lands grazing permittees by ensuring they are informed and can voice concerns regarding wildlife relocation efforts that may affect their property or operations.

  • County Commissioners: The bill places responsibilities on county commissioners to conduct hearings and make decisions regarding proposed wildlife projects.

  • Department of Fish and Game: The bill outlines new duties for the Department of Fish and Game, particularly in terms of communication and compliance with public health standards related to wildlife management.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 21, 2025
  • Current Status: Reported printed and referred to the Resources & Conservation Committee on February 24, 2025.
  • Hearing Timeline: If objections are raised, hearings must be conducted within 30 days of the request.

Fiscal Impact

The fiscal note indicates that the bill will not result in any increase or decrease in revenue at the state or local government levels. However, it may necessitate counties to conduct hearings in response to appeals from landowners or permit holders.

Conclusion

House Bill 302 is designed to foster greater public engagement in wildlife management decisions while safeguarding the interests of landowners and livestock operations in Idaho. By establishing clear notification and hearing processes, the bill aims to balance wildlife conservation efforts with the rights of affected stakeholders.

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

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