Idaho Property Rights Legislation Clears Senate, Moves To House

A property rights bill making its way through the Idaho legislature drew some passionate testimony last week.  Senate Bill 1326 would establish penalties for government employees to enter private land without permission from the landowner or a warrant.

SB 1326 does allow for limited emergency circumstances recognized by the courts.

During last week’s Senate hearing, only two organizations testified in opposition to the proposal; Trout Unlimited and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

“I don't care if it costs $3 billion to the state of Idaho if it's going to cost my people their property rights," said Senate Pro Tem Kelly Anthon.  "OK, so let's just start there. Now, we've talked about crime. I've heard testimony today, that we've had agents of the government go on to Idaho property owners and swipe elk racks. And the response from the government was, ‘golly, I'm sorry, we'll give them back’. But when somebody goes on to a private property and swipes a couple fish, by hell, it's something else. Boy, the government can run right on to private property owner and clobber them in the head. So let's, there's your perspective right there.”

SB 1326, which has been amended, was approved by the Senate by a 30-5 vote.  The legislation is now in the state House.

Click Here to learn more about SB 1326.

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