IdahoH 07372026 regular legislative sessionHouse

NATURAL RESOURCES – Amends, repeals, and adds to existing law to merge the Office of Species Conservation and the Office of Energy and Mineral Resources.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Livestock loss payments and faster appeals

Beginning July 1, 2024, the state sets aside $225,000 each year for livestock depredation. $150,000 pays confirmed claims and $75,000 funds conflict prevention outreach. The fund can hold up to $400,000. File claims with the office by December 31 each year; if claims exceed the $150,000 pool, payments are split pro rata. Starting July 1, 2026, the office also receives depredation appeals and sets up meetings with the Appeals Board.

Advisory team guides species delisting plans

Starting July 1, 2026, the director may create a Delisting Advisory Team of up to nine people who represent affected groups. The team recommends state management plans after federal delisting notices. After the Fish and Game Commission makes the required finding, it must send the plan to the new office and the legislature. Lawmakers may approve by concurrent resolution, and the governor’s office can ask agencies to start rulemaking. Non‑public DAT members may be paid from the office’s budget.

New office coordinates energy and wildlife

The law creates the Office of Species, Minerals, and Energy Coordination in the governor’s office. It starts July 1, 2026 and is led by an administrator the Senate confirms. On that date, staff, records, and equipment from the old energy/minerals and species offices move into the new office. The office can receive private, federal, and other public money in a new state fund, and may use the Renewable Energy Resources Fund when appropriated. It must support the Idaho Roadless Rule Implementation Commission. Employees of the new office are included in state personnel rules.

No species releases without state approval

Starting July 1, 2026, no one may introduce or reintroduce a species on Idaho lands or into Idaho waters without state consultation and approval. This confirms state control over species releases.

Stronger state lead on wolves and emergencies

Beginning July 1, 2026, the new office leads policy during the shift from federal to state wolf management and coordinates with Fish and Game and tribes. For emergency declarations, an affected area can include any place with a wolf sighting confirmed by the office or Fish and Game. The office receives executive order filings and may start emergency steps when directed.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

STATE AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Affiliation unavailable

Cosponsors

Judy Boyle
Republican • House
Lori Den Hartog
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 96 • No: 6

House vote • 3/16/2026

House Floor Vote

Yes: 30 • No: 2

House vote • 2/26/2026