SB 1078: Politicizing wildlife and parks — 2025

Senator Doug Okuniewicz (R-Hayden) introduced Senate Bill 1078 that would remove the authority from the independent Idaho Department of Fish & Game (IDFG) Commission, the Idaho Park & Recreation Board, and the Idaho Transportation Department to hire their respective directors. Instead, the Governor would appoint these positions.

When 76% of voters agreed in 1938 to establish the professional management of wildlife via IDFG, it was overwhelmingly approved because Idahoans saw the negative effects of political influence over fish and game management. Ever since, the IDFG commission has been guided by a 7-member commission, with representation from each region of the state.

It was the right decision in 1938 to keep politics out of wildlife management and it’s the right decision today. We already see too much political meddling when it comes to fish and game budgets; management of game farms; alterations to hunting seasons, bag limits, access, and more. Opening the commission to increased political influence threatens the integrity of the commission and undermines the intent of creating an independent and balanced commission to protect and preserve the fish and wildlife that belong to all Idahoans.

While not created by citizen initiative, the Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation and the Idaho Transportation Department have also operated for years under the leadership of their respective boards. Seizing control from these independent boards would inject unnecessary politics into decision over parks and roads as well.