This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code to revise the appointment process and terms for directors of various state departments, including the Idaho Department of Correction, the Department of Fish and Game, the Idaho Transportation Department, the Department of Lands, and the Department of Parks and Recreation. It establishes that the Governor will appoint these directors for a four-year term, with appointments requiring the advice and consent of the Senate. The bill also includes provisions for filling vacancies in state offices and specifies that directors must possess relevant knowledge and experience in their fields, prohibiting them from holding other public offices or positions in political organizations.

In addition to the appointment process, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the directors, granting them authority to organize their departments, hire staff, and implement rules and regulations. It emphasizes the importance of a merit system for employees and establishes a requirement for directors to be bonded. The bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2025, highlighting the urgency of timely appointments to ensure the functionality of state government.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 59-904, 20-217A, 36-106, 40-503, 58-105, 67-4222