Bill > H0415

This bill aims to protect Idaho's energy independence by restricting ownership of electrical transmission infrastructure by entities created or primarily governed by other state governments. Specifically, the legislation prohibits such out-of-state entities from acquiring, holding, or operating ownership interests in Idaho's electrical transmission facilities, including transmission lines, substations, and related infrastructure. The bill does not apply to private entities, investor-owned utilities, cooperative utilities, or independent transmission developers not directly created by another state government, and it does not prevent Idaho-based utilities from entering into energy transmission service contracts with out-of-state entities. The Idaho Public Utilities Commission is granted the authority to review and verify electrical transmission infrastructure ownership to ensure compliance. If any entity is found in violation, they will be required to divest their interest in Idaho energy infrastructure within two years of the law's effective date. The legislative intent behind this bill is to maintain local and regional control over critical energy infrastructure, emphasizing Idaho's desire to protect its energy independence and infrastructure autonomy.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

Ways and Means Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0415/