Bill > H0445

This bill appropriates additional funds and authorizes new resources for Idaho's Department of Water Resources for fiscal year 2026, with several key provisions. The bill allocates $31,097,700 from the General Fund to support department operations, including an increase of four full-time equivalent positions. It transfers $716,000 from the Revolving Development Fund to the Aquifer Planning and Management Fund for aquifer monitoring and $30,000,000 from the General Fund to the Water Management Fund for water projects. The bill provides reappropriation authority for unused American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State Fiscal Recovery Fund moneys and establishes specific guidelines for water infrastructure projects. These projects must prioritize aquifer recharge, water storage and conveyance system development, water supply improvements, and emergency infrastructure repairs. The funding will be equally divided between board districts 3 and 4, supporting a 2024 water user mitigation plan. The Department of Water Resources is required to submit a detailed report on these projects by December 5, 2025, and the bill includes provisions allowing for filing fee extensions related to general stream adjudications. The legislation declares an emergency, making it effective immediately upon the start of fiscal year 2026.

Budget and Finance

Appropriations Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0445/