ID H0561

Prohibits municipalities, counties, and state agencies from issuing new licenses or permits for wind turbines exceeding 100 feet in height and 100 kilowatts nameplate capacity from the effective date until July 1, 2014.

Allows previously approved projects with no pending legal proceedings as of February 1, 2012 to proceed; projects with pending litigation as of that date are blocked until legal proceedings conclude and a court approves construction.

Exempts facilities owned or controlled by the United States government or Bonneville Power Administration from the moratorium.

Creates an eight-member legislative task force (4 senators, 4 representatives) to study wind energy effects on power rates, utility grid integration, wildlife and endangered species, property values, and tax issues, with a report due by January 10, 2014.

Declares an emergency and establishes a sunset date of July 1, 2014, when the moratorium and all provisions expire.