Bill > H0895

This bill establishes limitations on how data centers can use water for cooling purposes, defining such use as "consumptive use," meaning water that is not returned to its source. Specifically, for data centers that start construction on or after July 1, 2026, they are prohibited from using water for cooling as a consumptive use unless that water is provided by a municipal, water district, or water and sewer district water system. The bill also includes legislative findings stating that the water required by data centers conflicts with local public interest, is contrary to water conservation efforts in Idaho, and can negatively impact local economies if the water source is outside the area where it's used. These findings are intended to guide the Director of the Department of Water Resources when evaluating new water rights for data centers. The bill declares an emergency and sets its effective date for July 1, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Ways and Means Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/H0895/