Idaho 2026 Regular Session

Idaho Senate Bill SJM111

Introduced
2/16/26  
Refer
2/17/26  
Engrossed
3/5/26  
Refer
3/6/26  
Report Pass
3/19/26  
Refer
3/24/26  

Caption

PUBLIC LANDS – States findings of the Legislature and supports retention of public lands in Idaho.

Summary

SJM111 is a joint memorial expressing the Idaho Legislature’s findings and position on public lands. The memorial states support for retaining public lands in Idaho, signaling the Legislature’s view that these lands should remain in public ownership rather than being transferred out of federal or public control. As a memorial, it is a formal statement of legislative sentiment and policy preference rather than a statute that directly changes state law. The measure is aimed at public lands policy broadly, including lands managed by the federal government within Idaho. It does not create new regulatory requirements, taxes, or enforcement provisions. Instead, it communicates Idaho’s stance to other governments and decision-makers, likely including federal officials, on the importance of keeping public lands in public hands and within the state.

Impact

Because SJM111 is a memorial, it does not amend Idaho Code or alter the legal rights of landowners, agencies, or the public. Its practical effect is political and communicative: it places the Legislature on record supporting retention of public lands in Idaho and may be used to advocate for state interests in future land-management or transfer debates. The bill affects public lands stakeholders, including state and federal land managers, outdoor recreation interests, ranchers, conservation groups, and local communities that depend on public land access and use.

Sentiment

The available context suggests generally favorable sentiment toward the memorial, with the bill advancing to delivery to the Secretary of State without recorded committee transcripts or vote details in the provided materials. The caption indicates a clear pro-public-lands-retention position, which typically aligns with support for continued public access and opposition to privatization or transfer of public lands. Because no recorded debate or roll-call votes are included, there is no evidence in the provided record of formal opposition or divided sentiment.

Contention

The main point of contention implied by the subject matter is the broader public-lands debate: whether lands should remain in public ownership, be transferred to state control, or be made available for other forms of disposition. Supporters would generally favor retention to preserve access, recreation, conservation, and existing land uses, while opponents or critics of such memorials may argue about state sovereignty, land-management flexibility, or economic development. However, the provided record contains no committee testimony or vote breakdowns identifying specific legislators or groups taking those positions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ID SCR105

States findings of the Legislature and declares support for receiving federal funds for supporting adoption in Idaho.

ID SCR112

States findings of the Legislature and rejects certain rules of the Idaho Department of Lands relating to state grazing leases.

ID SCR108

States findings of the Legislature and provides for support for the inclusion of PragerU Kids' supplemental education resources in Idaho public schools.

ID HCR006

States findings of the Legislature and expresses support for Idaho's partnership with Taiwan.

ID SR107

States findings of the Senate and supports observing an official time of prayer each day of the regular session of the Idaho Legislature.

ID SCR107

States finding of the Legislature and recognizes the vital role of cities in Idaho and supports the prioritization of local control.

ID SR105

States findings of the Legislature and provides that all temporary and pending rules of the Idaho State Police, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, the Idaho Secretary of State, the Department of Administration, and the Idaho State Lottery have been reviewed and approved by the Senate State Affairs Committee, with an exception.

ID SR101

States findings of the Legislature and provides that all temporary and pending rules of the Idaho State Police, the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, the Idaho Secretary of State, the Department of Administration, and the Idaho State Lottery have been reviewed and approved by the Senate State Affairs Committee, with exceptions.

ID HCR016

States findings of the Legislature and authorizes the Legislative Council to appoint a committee to undertake a study of the property insurance market in Idaho.

ID HJR003

States findings of the Legislature and proposes an amendment to the Idaho Constitution requiring a 2/3 vote of the Legislature to legalize certain illegal drugs.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.