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H 326

TRANSPORTATION – Amends existing law to provide for the appointment of certain single county-wide highway district commissioners.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 326 adds two appointed commissioners to Idaho's countywide highway districts, improving coordination between local and state transportation authorities.

U.C. to be returned to Ways & Means Committee
#commissions #counties #districts #highways #transportation
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Bill Summary · H 326

Summary of House Bill 326 (H 326)

Title

Transportation – Amends existing law to provide for the appointment of certain single county-wide highway district commissioners.

Introduction

House Bill 326 was introduced on February 25, 2025, and is currently under consideration by the Ways & Means Committee. The bill aims to amend existing laws regarding the governance of countywide highway districts in Idaho.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of H 326 is to enhance the governance structure of countywide highway districts by adding two appointed commissioners to the existing five elected commissioners. This change is intended to improve coordination between county and state governments regarding transportation infrastructure.

Key Provisions

  • Addition of Commissioners: The bill proposes the appointment of two additional highway district commissioners:

    • One commissioner will be appointed by the Governor.
    • The other will be appointed by the Board of County Commissioners.

  • Commissioner Structure:

    • The total number of highway district commissioners will increase from five to seven.
    • The appointed commissioners will not represent specific subdistricts but will have the same powers and duties as elected commissioners.

  • Term Lengths:

    • The first county-appointed commissioner will serve until December 31, 2026.
    • The first governor-appointed commissioner will serve until December 31, 2028.
    • Subsequent appointed commissioners will serve four-year terms.

  • Eligibility:

    • Individuals currently serving as county commissioners, mayors, or city council members are not eligible to be appointed as highway district commissioners.

  • Compensation: The cost of the two additional commissioners is estimated at $17,500 per year for the highway district.

Impact

  • Affected Entities: This legislation will primarily affect countywide highway districts in Idaho, particularly those in counties with populations exceeding 200,000.
  • Governance Improvement: By adding appointed commissioners, the bill aims to facilitate better communication and collaboration between local and state transportation authorities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has undergone several legislative actions since its introduction, including:
    • Reported out of committee with a Do Pass recommendation on March 4, 2025.
    • Currently, it is scheduled to be returned to the Ways & Means Committee as of March 18, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 326 seeks to modernize the governance of countywide highway districts in Idaho by introducing appointed commissioners to enhance coordination and oversight. The bill is currently in the legislative process and awaits further consideration by the committee.

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

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