Board of Environmental Quality
The Board of Environmental Quality is a rulemaking and advisory body created by the Environmental Protection and Health Act, Idaho Code Title 39, Chapter 1, Section 107.
Powers and Authorities
Rulemaking proceedings and hearings of the Board are governed by the Idaho Administrative Procedure Act (Idaho Code Title 67, Chapter 52).
Rulemaking
By an affirmative vote of four of its members, the Board may adopt, amend or repeal the rules, codes, and standards of DEQ that are necessary and feasible to carry out its purposes and provisions of the Environmental Protection and Health Act and to enforce the laws of the state. DEQ, with assistance from the attorney general's office, is responsible for drafting rules for consideration by the Board. Two basic types of rules—proposed and temporary—may be presented to the Board for adoption. Rules adopted by the Board have the force of law, but are subject to legislative review.
Hearings
Anyone aggrieved by the action or inaction of the department may request a hearing by the Board or a Board-designated hearing officer. Likewise, Board determinations may be petitioned for judicial review.
Board Members
The Board consists of seven members appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Members serve at the pleasure of the Governor. Terms are four years. Learn more.
Meetings, Agendas, and Minutes
Frequency of Board meetings is decided by the Board according to the need for "orderly conduct of its business." The Board generally meets three or four times a year. Five members are necessary for a quorum at any regular or special meeting. The action of the majority of members present constitutes the action of the Board. Adoption of rules requires an affirmative vote of four members. Meeting schedules, agendas, and minutes can be viewed here.