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. Key provisions include the requirement for the director of the Department of Fish and Game to notify county commissioners and affected landowners prior to any proposed transplant or relocation of bighorn sheep, as well as the establishment of a management plan to maintain a viable population of bighorn sheep in Idaho. The bill also emphasizes the importance of recognizing existing sheep or livestock operations in the area of any transplant and the potential risks of disease transmission.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the testing of deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, bison, and wolves for certain communicable diseases before they are imported or transported. It mandates that any suspicion of communicable disease in wildlife be reported to the Department of Agriculture within 24 hours. The bill also allows the director to enter into agreements with independent contractors for the provision of telephone order and credit card payment services for controlled hunt permits and licenses. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36-106