The bill amends Section 36-1121 of the Idaho Code to enhance compensation for livestock owners who suffer losses due to depredation by grizzly bears and wolves. It establishes a depredation of livestock and prevention fund, which will receive an annual appropriation of $225,000 starting July 1, 2024. Of this amount, $150,000 is designated for confirmed claims of depredation, while $75,000 is allocated for conflict prevention and information dissemination regarding effective deterrents. The bill also modifies the terminology from "validated" to "confirmed" claims and introduces a tiered payment system for claims based on their classification as confirmed, probable, or possible, ensuring that funds are distributed on a pro rata basis if there are insufficient resources to cover all claims.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that any remaining funds after paying confirmed claims will be allocated to those with probable claims, and subsequently to those with possible claims, until the fund is depleted. It clarifies that compensation will be based on the current fair market value of the livestock, with any other compensation deducted prior to payment. The definition of "livestock" is also reaffirmed to include various domesticated animals used in agriculture, excluding aquatic animals. The bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36-1121