Idaho Bills

States findings of the Legislature, expresses concern and opposition towards the Lava Ridge wind energy project, and requests additional federal intervention.

States findings of the Legislature, expresses concern and opposition towards the Lava Ridge wind energy project, and requests that the State of Idaho monitor the project and assist in applicable reviews.

In 2023, the 67th Idaho Legislature unanimously passed House Concurrent Resolution 004, opposing LS Energy’s application to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management for the lease of extensive acreage in Jerome, Minidoka, and Lincoln Counties. Despite tremendous opposition to the Lava Ridge Project, the proposal has been approved at a reduced- yet still substantial- acreage, with significant impacts on the Magic Valley. We were pleased to see on January 20, 2025, President Trump signing an executive order which specifically identified the Lava Ridge project and ordered the Department of Interior to place a temporary moratorium on all activities and rights of the developer under the Record of Decision issued by the Bureau of Land Management on December 5, 2024. On January 22, 2025, Governor Brad Little issued a similar Executive Order, 2025-01, asking all Idaho State Agencies to fully cooperate with the efforts to put an end to the Lava Ridge Proposal. Numerous citizens remain deeply concerned that the massive construction demands, wildlife disruptions, and infrastructure requirements far outweigh any short-term financial benefits. Furthermore, the long-term benefits of the power generated will primarily serve Nevada and California, leaving Idaho with the negative environmental impacts, including risks to the Snake River Aquifer. ThisresolutionspecificallycallsontheIdahoAttorneyGeneralandGovernorBradLittletocontinuetheefforts to formally protest and appeal the Bureau of Land Management’s approval.