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HJM 22

PREDATORY BIRDS – States findings of the Legislature and supports curtailment of the pelican population.

68th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session (2026)

Idaho legislature backs reducing pelican populations to protect fish resources, though federal protections and ecosystem impacts complicate implementation.

Delivered to Secretary of State at 12:54 p.m. on April 2, 2026
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Bill Summary · HJM 22

Legislative bill overview

HJM 22 is a House Joint Memorial that expresses legislative findings supporting efforts to reduce Idaho's pelican population. The bill does not create law or allocate funding but serves as a formal statement of the Legislature's position on pelican management.

Why is this important

Pelicans consume significant quantities of fish, which can impact both recreational fishing interests and aquaculture operations. This memorial could signal legislative support for wildlife management actions by state agencies or influence future funding and policy decisions regarding pelican populations in Idaho.

Potential points of contention

  • Fish predation vs. ecosystem balance: Pelicans are native species with ecological roles; reducing populations affects broader ecosystem dynamics and food webs beyond just fish availability
  • Conservation law conflicts: Pelicans have federal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act; state memorials supporting culling may conflict with federal authority and require coordination
  • Economic motivation clarity: The bill's focus on "predatory" framing may obscure whether this primarily serves commercial fishing/aquaculture interests rather than genuine wildlife management needs
  • Scientific basis: The specific findings cited in the memorial should be evaluated for current scientific consensus on pelican population impacts and management alternatives

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

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