The bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to the Agricultural Protection Area Act, introducing new definitions and provisions to enhance the protection and management of agricultural lands. Notably, it defines "Agricultural protection area fund," which is a fund created by counties to provide financial incentives to landowners within approved agricultural protection areas. The bill also revises existing provisions regarding the establishment and management of agricultural protection areas, including the process for adding or removing land from these areas, and the limitations on local regulations that could affect agricultural practices.

Additionally, the bill mandates that each board of county commissioners establish an agricultural protection area fund by January 1, 2026, allowing for voluntary contributions from public and private entities. It stipulates that at least 95% of the funds collected must be distributed to landowners with approved agricultural protection areas, ensuring that all such areas are eligible for funding regardless of their establishment date. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining agricultural viability and outlines the procedures for reviewing applications for agricultural protection areas, thereby streamlining the process while ensuring that local regulations do not hinder agricultural practices. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-9703, 67-9704, 67-9706, 67-9709, 67-9710