The bill establishes the Office of Species, Minerals, and Energy Coordination in Idaho, merging the existing offices of energy and mineral resources and species conservation into a single entity. This new office is tasked with enhancing coordination and efficiency in managing Idaho's natural resources, including overseeing state and federal permitting processes, serving as a liaison to federal agencies, and ensuring compliance with recovery plans for endangered species. The legislation repeals the previous Section 67-818 and introduces a new Section 67-818 that outlines these responsibilities. The governor will appoint the administrator of this office, who must be confirmed by the senate. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code to reflect this new office's establishment and its broader focus on resource management.

The bill also addresses the management of wolf populations and compensation for livestock depredation caused by wolves and grizzly bears, replacing the term "species conservation" with "species, minerals, and energy coordination" in multiple sections. It mandates an annual report on the Idaho wolf conservation and management plan and establishes a fund for compensating livestock owners for confirmed depredation claims. Furthermore, the bill creates a delisting advisory team for threatened or endangered species and emphasizes public education in management plans. It also updates provisions related to water rights, mining reclamation, and renewable energy resources, ensuring efficient administration while protecting private property rights. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes provisions for public dissemination of executive orders related to disaster emergencies concerning the introduction of Canadian gray wolves.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 67-818, 67-819, 22-5501, 36-715, 36-1121, 36-2402, 36-2403, 36-2405, 42-251, 47-1706, 57-1306, 67-826, 67-5303, 67-5806, 67-5807