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Panel sends RS 32239C1 to print, proposes ban on unauthorized weather modification while exempting authorized cloud seeding
Summary
RS 32239C1 would prohibit unauthorized weather modification and solar radiation management in Idaho, exempting Idaho Water Resource Board–authorized cloud seeding; the committee voted to send the draft to print.
Sponsor Senator Tammy Nichols presented RS 32239C1 on Feb. 18 proposing to prohibit unauthorized weather modification and solar radiation management in Idaho while explicitly exempting cloud-seeding operations authorized by the Idaho Water Resource Board.
Nichols told the committee the measure was intended to protect Idaho agriculture, water supplies and public welfare by forbidding broad weather-modification activities (including solar radiation management) while keeping existing, authorized cloud-seeding programs in place. The draft also would eliminate an obsolete weather-modification taxing district last used in the 1970s (she stated the only historic use was in Oneida County). The draft grants enforcement authority to law enforcement, she said, and refines statutory definitions for cloud seeding and broader weather modification.
Committee members asked the sponsor to return with a strong scientific foundation. Senator Lent and Senator Taylor both said they would support printing the draft but asked for additional evidence when it returns. Senator Cole moved to send RS 32239C1 to print; Senator Lakey seconded. The committee approved the motion by voice vote, advancing the draft for formal printing and further committee consideration.
Sponsors and committee members framed the draft as protecting Idaho’s existing authorized cloud-seeding program while barring unregulated weather-modification techniques. The transcript records no amendments adopted at the hearing.
