This bill amends Section 42-612 of the Idaho Code to update the provisions regarding water district budgets and introduces a new mechanism for charging a fixed fee to cover administrative costs associated with property ownership transfers. Specifically, it mandates that water users shall adopt a budget for the succeeding year at the annual meeting and outlines how the budgeted funds will be collected. The bill also clarifies that if a water delivery organization or user diverts water from one regulated water district to another, the second district may charge a fee for watermaster services instead of an assessment, and those charged a fee will not have voting rights unless they hold other assessed water rights.

Additionally, the bill allows water users to authorize the water district to charge a fixed fee, determined by resolution, to cover administrative costs related to collaborating with title companies during property ownership transfers. This collaboration may include notifying title companies of outstanding balances and transferring relevant water right documentation. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 42-612