This bill amends Section 36-106 of the Idaho Code to establish new provisions regarding the transplant or relocation of certain wildlife, specifically bighorn sheep, and to require testing for communicable diseases in animals imported, transported, or utilized for tracking purposes. The amendments include a requirement for the director of the Department of Fish and Game to provide reasonable notice to county commissioners and affected landowners before any proposed transplant or relocation of bighorn sheep. Additionally, the bill mandates that a management plan be developed to maintain a viable population of bighorn sheep, taking into account existing domestic sheep grazing allotments.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new legal language that prohibits the director from expending funds or authorizing actions for wildlife transplant or relocation without prior notice and hearings if concerns are raised. It also specifies that any deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, or bison imported or transported must be tested for certain diseases, with the specifics of the testing program to be mutually agreed upon by the Department of Fish and Game and the Department of Agriculture. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36-106