HB 128 Summary

• Repeals the previous Section 50-222 of Idaho Code and establishes new annexation requirements that cities may only annex land with the consent of landowners.

• Requires cities to provide landowners with written notice including a summary of the annexation plan, proof of their consent rights, a 45-day filing deadline, and a legal description and map of the subject land.

• Mandates cities publish notice of annexation intent in the official newspaper at least 28 days before a public hearing and hold a public hearing where landowners and residents may testify for or against annexation.

• Requires at least two-thirds (2/3) of affected landowners to consent to annexation through a written instrument, and cities must publish a detailed written annexation plan describing services, taxes, costs, and land use impacts.

• Provides exceptions for airports, fairgrounds, recreational areas of 50+ acres, and railroad rights-of-way, and allows judicial review of annexation decisions in district court within 28 days of ordinance publication.