This bill amends existing Idaho law regarding cloud seeding by revising Section 42-4301 and adding new sections to Chapter 43, Title 42. The amendments include legislative findings that emphasize the importance of a reliable water supply for Idaho's economy and the potential benefits of cloud seeding for drought mitigation and water resource management. The language has been updated to reflect that cloud seeding "may be" in the public interest and that it "may result" in increased water supplies, rather than asserting these outcomes as certainties. Additionally, the bill introduces definitions for key terms related to cloud seeding and establishes authorization and reporting requirements for cloud seeding programs.

The new sections outline the responsibilities of the Idaho water resource board, including the requirement to compile and publish annual reports detailing operational data, environmental impacts, public engagement, and effectiveness metrics of cloud seeding activities. The bill also stipulates that state funds can only be used for cloud seeding in areas where existing water supplies are insufficient, and it provides liability protections for cloud seeding projects funded or authorized by the state. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 42-4301
Engrossment 1: 42-4301
Engrossment 2: 42-4301