ID state bill would require economic survey before pollution rules enforced

A Senate panel in Idaho signs off on new legislation backed by farm groups.

It would require state officials to consider economic impacts when placing pollution regulations on farms and ranches producing manure.

The Idaho Dairymen’s Association supports the bill, as dairy is the “Gem State’s” top ag industry valued at more than $2 billion dollars. Supports say that pollution regulations should not be so oppressive, noting that they force farms and ranches out of business.