HB 247 Summary

• Ratifies and approves the Comprehensive State Water Plan (Part A) adopted by the Idaho Water Resource Board on November 28, 2012, with specified amendments to 13 policies.

• Amends aquifer recharge policy to encourage managed recharge projects while monitoring effects on water supplies and quality.

• Removes all provisions from Policy 2E (Riparian Habitat and Wetlands) and Policy 3G (Climate Variability), designating these as reserved section numbers.

• Updates policies related to aquatic species protection, minimum stream flows, and conservation plans in Salmon/Clearwater River Basins to emphasize voluntary, community-based approaches and state primacy over water resources.

• Requires all state agencies to exercise their duties consistent with the amended Comprehensive State Water Plan and declares an emergency to make the act effective immediately upon passage.