Idaho lawmakers are considering a bill that would require the state to take action to control and remove Norway and roof rats but the proposal is drawing concern from pest control companies and critics who argue rat control sho uld fall on property owners, not the state.The Rodents of Unusual Size Act would declare the two rat species a public health and safety nuisance. Supporters of the bill point to a similar program in Alberta, Canada, as a model for success. WATCH: Idaho bill targets Norway and roof rats as public nuisance Idaho bill targeting Norway and roof rats moves forwardJimmy Hallyburton, a Boise city council member, said the Alberta program has shown results."They haven't completely eliminated them, but they are seeing 3 or 4 rats a year," Hallyburton said.RELATED | 'I've never seen something that big': Boise neighbors finding rats in their backyardsSome pest control companies, however, worry the bill could cut into their business. Ben Miller, who opposes the bill, raised questions about how the program would be implemented."Are we going to use private companies?" Miller said. "They haven't told us yet, but we don't want to wait until this bill is already put in to find out we're losing business because of that."Representative Steve Berch, who introduced the bill, said the Idaho State Department of Agriculture would work alongside private companies rather than replace them."There will be contract work with the private sectors because they do have the expertise," Rep. Berch said.Critics also argue that rat control should be the responsibility of property owners rather than a state-managed effort. Funding for the program has also been raised as a concern.RELATED | It was like an explosion of rats: Neighbors report rise in pestsAfter advancing through committee, the bill now moves to the House floor.This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been, in part, converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy. ...read more read less