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 specific 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 before any transplant actions, and to hold hearings if concerns are raised. Additionally, the bill mandates that any deer, elk, antelope, moose, bighorn sheep, or bison imported or transported must be tested for communicable diseases that could affect domestic livestock, 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 also introduces a new requirement that the director cannot undertake any transplant or relocation of wildlife, excluding game fish and classified predatory wildlife, without prior notice to relevant parties and a waiting period of at least thirty days. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing existing sheep or livestock operations in areas where wildlife transplants are proposed, and the potential risks associated with disease transmission. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36-106