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 fees related to 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 budget should be funded. The bill also allows for the establishment of a fixed fee, determined by resolution, to cover administrative costs related to transferring water rights documentation to new owners. This fee is separate from assessments and is not applicable to water users who do not hold assessed water rights.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for calculating the amounts owed by water users based on the actual volume of water delivered in previous seasons and allows for the estimation of water usage when records are unavailable. It also stipulates that the budget adopted at the annual meeting constitutes a final determination of the amounts due for that year, eliminating the need to carry forward any debits or credits to the following year. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 42-612