Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 1 into law today, praising House Speaker Scott Bedke for his determination and months of collaborative efforts between diverse water interests in the Treasure Valley to move the policy forward.

“House Bill 1 is about Idaho’s most precious resource – our water,” Governor Little said. “House Bill 1 is proof yet again that Idaho excels at bringing together diverse interests to chart a path forward on contentious issues so everyone benefits.”

“I am committed to water, water rights, and water storage. These are incredibly sensitive and challenging issues, and they are vital to our state and our agricultural communities. House Bill 1 is part of a comprehensive solution that ensures we are proactive in protecting Idaho’s water storage rights,” House Speaker Scott Bedke said.

House Bill 1 resolves serious concerns of water users in the Boise River Basin and outlines the role of the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) director in authorizing water rights for new water storage. House Bill 1 specifies how IDWR will account for stored water following the release for flood control and, if the water is released, how those with water rights will be satisfied.

The issue had been discussed and litigated extensively leading up to the drafting of House Bill 1, which passed with unanimous support of the Idaho Senate and House of Representatives this session.

More information about House Bill 1 can be found here.

# # #

NEWS MEDIA CONTACT:

Marissa Morrison, Press Secretary | 208-943-1686 or marissa.morrison@gov.idaho.gov