SB 1271: Rats as Invasive Species and Threat to Public Health (2026)

Summary: SB 1271 declares Norway rats to be invasive and a public health threat and directs ISDA to coordinate abatement efforts with state and local partners.

ICL’s Position: Support

Current Bill Status: Committee - Senate Agricultural Affairs

Issue Areas: Pests, Public Health

Senate Bill 1271, introduced by Sen. Tammy Nichols (R-District 10), aims to address the growing presence of invasive Norway rats and roof rats in Idaho – particularly in southwest metro areas. It declares the animals as invasive and a threat to public safety and agriculture. It designates the Idaho Department of Agriculture to coordinate abatement actions and work with state and local partners using existing resources. This legislation does not appropriate new state funds. Any response and management costs will be linked to existing city and county budgets. Should collective abatement efforts prove insufficient, the legislature could reevaluate funding needs in the future.