The bill amends Section 22-4505 of the Idaho Code to enhance protections for agricultural operations against nuisance claims. It establishes that agricultural operations, facilities, or expansions that adhere to recognized agricultural practices or comply with relevant permits cannot be deemed a public or private nuisance. Additionally, if a nuisance claim is filed against an agricultural operation and the court finds in favor of the owner or operator, they are entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs from the non-prevailing party.

Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for individuals who file multiple meritless complaints against agricultural operations within a two-year period. Specifically, a second meritless complaint will incur a $150 fine, a third will incur a $300 fine, and a fourth or subsequent complaint will be classified as a misdemeanor. The bill defines a "meritless complaint" as one alleging a nuisance when the agricultural operation was compliant with the law at the time of the complaint. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 22-4505