Dex Lake

Last week, lawmakers in Boise adjourned the first regular session of the 68th Idaho Legislature.  Dex Lake with the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said the agriculture community fared well over the past 2 ½ months.   “House Bill 104, which creates a single definition for agricultural buildings across all local jurisdictions," Lake said.  "House Bill 148, that cre...

Unfortunately, it happens with enough frequency that lawmakers in Boise felt it was an issue to address this legislative session; Bad actor recreators who cause damage or break the rules of private property owners.  Senate Bill 1086 looks to clarify that when a landowner imposes restrictions on recreational use of their property, anyone who violates those restrictions can be cited for trespass.  

Earlier this week, the Idaho senate held a hearing on Senate Bill 1133A, legislation looking to refine the state’s Agricultural Protection Areas, or APAs.  Dex Lake with the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said this bill looks to clarify the APA application process at the county level, ensuring efficiency and transparency.   “The update...

According to the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, property owners in the Gem State may soon see some tax relief.  Supporters of House Bill 304 would provide an additional $100 million of annual property tax relief to Idahoans starting in 2025.   “...

Legislation lowering the Idaho income tax rate cleared the state legislature last week.  Dex Lake with the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said House Bill 40 would reduce the state’s income tax rates, for both individuals and businesses, from the current 5.695% to 5.3% of...

A new proposal in the Idaho House, House Bill 195, looks to establish stricter guidelines for the state Department of Fish and Game before relocating or transplanting wildlife.   “The bill requires 30-day advance notice to county commissioners, landowners and lease holders before any wildlife release, with a few exceptions, for small animals like starlings and raccoons," said Dex Lake with th

Currently 70% of Idaho is controlled by the federal or state government, but that figure could move higher under House Bill 129.  Dex Lake of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said this proposal would allow the state to purchase more privately owned acreage.   “...

Idaho House Joint Memorial 4 was introduced earlier this month, asking the federal government to remove the grizzly bear from the Endangered Species List.  The Memorial said grizzly bears have reached recovery goals in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, and those elevated population numbers have led to conflicts between bears and both humans and other animals alike.   “...

By a 70-0 vote Tuesday, the Idaho House approved House Bill 104, which provides a unified and singular definition for agricultural buildings in the section of state code dealing with building permits.  Dex Lake with the Idaho Farm Bureau said state law does not require building permits for ag buildings and only requires compliance with road setback specifications and utility easements.  He added t

The Idaho Legislative Session is underway, and the Farm Bureau said it’s important farmers statewide stay plugged into what’s happening in Boise.  Idaho Farm Bureau Federation’s Dex Lake said despite demographic changes across the state in recent years, most lawmakers still understand the important role agriculture plays in Idaho’s economy.  But do lawmakers respect Idaho ...