This bill amends Chapter 23, Title 67 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 67-2304, which designates the Norway rat, roof rat, and any wild and uncontrolled rat as invasive species under the invasive species act of 2008. The legislation empowers local governments, defined as counties, cities, municipalities, or other political subdivisions of Idaho, to take necessary actions to control and remove these rats from public property. Additionally, local governments may also manage rat populations on private property, provided they obtain written permission from the property owner.
The bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval. This swift implementation underscores the urgency of addressing the invasive rat issue in Idaho, enabling local authorities to act promptly to mitigate potential ecological and public health impacts associated with these species.