This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code related to county-based or city-based intermodal commerce authorities. It authorizes these authorities to acquire, construct, maintain, and operate various facilities, including utility services facilities, to support modern land-based ports. Additionally, it revises the general powers of these authorities, allowing them to include utility services, including water and sewer facilities, but not including facilities to transmit, distribute, or produce electrical energy or broadband services. The bill also emphasizes the importance of these authorities in promoting economic development and provides them with the ability to recommend zoning regulations and support local businesses. Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section, 70-2214, which outlines the procedures for the publication of proceedings related to the authorization of revenue bonds. It mandates that resolutions authorizing such bonds be published in a local newspaper and establishes a 30-day contest period during which interested parties can challenge the legality of the proceedings. After this period, the validity of the bonds and related resolutions is presumed legal, and no further legal challenges can be made. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 70-2201, 70-2206
Engrossment 1: 70-2201, 70-2206