Proposes an amendment to the state constitution to establish provisions for the management of certain lands granted or acquired from the federal government.
LANDS -- Proposes an amendment to the state constitution to establish provisions for the management of certain lands granted or acquired from the federal government.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
Protecting public lands in Idaho from permanent loss is of vital importance to the identity, culture, and livelihoods of Idahoans. This joint resolution proposes an amendment to Section 8, Article IX of the Idaho Constitution, distinguishing between state endowment lands granted for specific institutional purposes and public lands acquired from the federal government. The state Endowment will be unaffected, ensuring that the Endowment continues to generate revenue for its beneficiaries. Federally managed lands that may be endowed in the future will be placed in a separate, inviolable trust to be preserved for future generations, prohibiting the sale of these lands and allowing exchanges when approved by a two-third vote of the Legislature. These lands will be managed to balance and promote resource utilization, public recreation, scenic values, watershed quality, and wildlife habitat. Revenue from these lands will be applied to the Public Lands Trust Fund, dedicated first to operating and maintaining the land, then to compensating counties, enhancing public access, and supporting primary and secondary public education facilities.
LATEST ACTION
Reported Printed; referred to State Affairs
BILL INFO
- Session
- 2026
- Chamber
- senate
- Status date
- Jan 21, 2026