Idaho Bills

Adds to existing law to declare certain rats a public health and safety nuisance and to require abatement.

The purpose of this legislation is to address the growing presence of invasive Norway rats and roof rats in Idaho, which pose risks to public health, agriculture, and infrastructure. Idaho has not historically had established populations of these rats, and early, coordinated action is necessary to prevent permanent establishment and increased long-term costs. This legislation declares these rats to be public nuisances and aligns their treatment across existing Idaho laws governing invasive species, agricultural pests, and public health pests. It designates the Idaho Department of Agriculture as the coordinating agency to work with state and local partners using existing authority and resources, without creating new programs or requiring new funding.