Rating: –1

Bill Summary:

House Bill 445 provides a supplemental appropriation of $31,097,700 to the Idaho Department of Water Resources for Fiscal Year 2026. The funding includes $30,058,700 for Planning and Technical Services, $432,400 for Management and Support, and $606,600 for Water Management programs. The bill adds four new full-time equivalent positions and authorizes the reappropriation of unspent ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Funds for water infrastructure projects.

The legislation transfers $716,000 from the Revolving Development Fund to the Aquifer Planning and Management Fund and allocates $30 million from the General Fund to the Water Management Fund for statewide water projects. These projects include aquifer recharge, emergency repairs, water storage, and conveyance improvements. Half of the $30 million is earmarked for board districts 3 and 4 to support a stipulated mitigation plan between surface and groundwater users. The bill includes detailed reporting provisions and an emergency clause, taking effect July 1, 2025.

Reason for Rating:

House Bill 445 dramatically increases state spending without structural reforms, long-term efficiency mandates, or cost containment. The bill relies heavily on general fund and federal ARPA dollars while expanding state bureaucracy through new staffing. It prioritizes centralized planning and regional earmarking over equitable, market-driven, or locally governed water solutions. Additionally, it continues the misuse of emergency clauses to fast-track routine budget actions. These provisions conflict with the Idaho Republican Party Platform’s commitments to limited government, fiscal discipline, and state sovereignty. For these reasons, H0445 is rated –1.