Bill > S1271

This bill declares certain rats, specifically the Norway rat and the roof rat, to be a public health and safety nuisance in Idaho due to their increasing presence, potential to spread disease, and ability to cause economic damage. The Director of the Department of Agriculture is tasked with coordinating with various state and local entities, including county commissioners and public health districts, to determine the extent of the rat problem and whether action is needed. The department will develop and implement a plan to engage the public and stakeholders, collect reports on rat sightings to track their movement and identify areas needing intervention, and create publicly accessible educational materials on prevention and eradication. This plan will be updated at least every three years and presented to legislative committees, with potential funding requests for abatement efforts if deemed necessary. State agencies and local governments are encouraged to assist, but mandatory participation or local spending is not required.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

Agricultural Affairs Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1271/