Bill > S1012

This bill establishes the Idaho Depredating Wildlife Appeals Board, a three-member board within the governor's office designed to provide a formal appeal process for individuals who have suffered wildlife-related damages but had their initial depredation claim denied. The board will consist of representatives from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, the Department of Fish and Game, and a large animal veterinarian appointed by the governor. When an individual appeals a denied wildlife damage claim, the board can review various forms of evidence including eyewitness testimony, photographs, telemetry data, and expert analysis to potentially overturn the original determination. The board has the authority to confirm depredation incidents involving grizzly bears, black bears, mountain lions, and wolves, and its ruling will be final and binding for compensation purposes. Notably, the bill exempts the board from standard open meeting requirements, allowing them to conduct meetings privately. The legislation also amends existing laws to integrate this new appeals process, specifying that initial investigators must inform individuals of their right to appeal and that any confirmed depredation incidents through this board will be officially counted. The board is set to become operational on July 1, 2025, and is intended to provide a more comprehensive review process for landowners and farmers who have experienced wildlife-related property damage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

Resources and Environment Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1012/