This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to enhance the management and enforcement of laws related to forest fires, log branding, oil and gas conservation, and mining operations. Key provisions include declaring uncontrolled fires as public nuisances, establishing civil liability for fire management costs, and clarifying the responsibilities of timber owners and railroads during fire seasons. The bill also updates the legal framework for civil enforcement actions, specifying that such actions can be prosecuted under section 58-120 of the Idaho Code, and replaces references to the "attorney general" with "general counsel" for the Department of Lands in various contexts, including the enforcement of log brand regulations and oil and gas conservation.

Additionally, the bill introduces new penalties for violations of log brand laws, allows for civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, and streamlines the registration process for log brands. It establishes a reclamation fund and a cyanidation facility closure fund, outlines penalties for falsifying records, and increases fines for occupying state land without a lease. The bill also clarifies the legal representation of the Department of Lands and specifies that legal actions to enforce the chapter's provisions will be initiated under the amended section of the Idaho Code. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 38-107, 38-113, 38-118, 38-123, 38-128, 38-808, 38-1220A, 38-1221, 38-1307, 47-314, 47-718, 47-1317, 47-1324, 47-1513, 58-120, 58-312, 58-1308, 67-1406