BOISE — The Idaho Water Resource Board would have an additional, ongoing $30 million for infrastructure if Senate Bill 1128 passes.

The money, to come from the state general fund that is sourced by sales and income tax, will “continue a statewide approach to responsible water management that maintains and secures Idaho’s water,” according to the bill’s purpose statement.

Targeted projects include those that focus on aquifer recharge, groundwater management, water supply and delivery improvements, storage and conveyance system development and rehabilitation, and emergency repairs to water infrastructure.

No more than half the funds could be used in one of the state’s four board districts unless there are no competing applications in other districts during the fiscal year. Funds may be combined with other sources.

The legislature “recognizes the vital role of ongoing investments in water infrastructure in supporting the long-term sustainability of Idaho’s water resources and overall economy,” according to the bill text. The appropriation “reflects the state’s commitment to securing its economic success by continuing a statewide approach to responsible water management, and by maintaining and securing the state’s water supply for agricultural, municipal and industrial uses.”

The legislature and Gov. Brad Little have prioritized water infrastructure spending in recent years. Funding sources have included American Rescue Plan Act funds and state budget surplus money.

Surface water and groundwater users on the eastern Snake River plain, which lies under much of the state’s south-central and southeast regions, last year struck a rights-related settlement agreement.

“It is the intent of the legislature to provide for ongoing investment in water infrastructure, including assisting in the success of the 2024 settlement agreement,” according to the bill text.

Funding would go into the state water management account, which the board oversees.

Little, whose proposed budget includes $30 million for critical water infrastructure, applauded the Senate for introducing the legislation, which “acknowledges the need for water infrastructure to increase sustainability of the resource in eastern Idaho, the Palouse, Mountain Home, Treasure Valley and more,” according to a news release from the governor’s office. He thanked bill sponsor Sen. Van Burtenshaw, R-Terreton, and other supporters of SB 1128.

“After spending much of last year talking to water users, we heard loud and clear from Idaho farmers that our water issues will only be fixed with ongoing funding for critical infrastructure projects,” Little said.

“Idaho is not like the state of California and other arid Western states that have not planned for the future when it comes to water,” he said. “In Idaho, we have consistently implemented structurally balanced budgets that account for not only today’s needs but tomorrow’s as well.”