Idaho Capitol Watch

HB 676: GEOTHERMAL – Amends existing law to provide for the municipal use of geothermal water.

Amends Idaho water law to explicitly include municipal geothermal heating and cooling as 'municipal purposes' under reasonably anticipated future needs (RAFN) provisions. Requires documentation of injection plans for non-consumptive geothermal use to preserve aquifers while enabling community heating systems.

Status

Effective (July 1, 2026) · Originated in the Idaho House · Introduced February 16, 2026

Sponsors

  • RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION COMMITTEE

Committees

  • JRA for Printing

Bill history

  • March 17, 2026 — House: Reported Enrolled; Signed by Speaker; Transmitted to Senate
  • March 18, 2026 — Senate: Received from the House enrolled/signed by Speaker
  • March 18, 2026 — Senate: Signed by President; returned to House
  • March 18, 2026 — Senate: Returned Signed by the President; Ordered Transmitted to Governor
  • March 18, 2026 — Senate: Delivered to Governor at 4:22 p.m. on March 18, 2026
  • March 19, 2026 — Senate: Reported Signed by Governor on March 19, 2026
  • March 19, 2026 — Senate: Session Law Chapter 65
  • July 1, 2026 — Senate: Effective: 07/01/2026

If this preview does not update automatically, use the full page link.

Canonical URL: https://idahocapitolwatch.com/bills/2026-HB676