BOISE — A bill set out to eliminate the risk of wildfires in Idaho by banning explosive targets on all public lands cleared the Senate on Monday.

The bill, sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett, D-Ketchum, would bring Idaho in line with federal laws prohibiting exploding targets during the fire season of May to October. It passed the Senate on a 27-8 vote. 

The proposed legislation prohibits exploding targets on any state land, classifies the crime as a misdemeanor, and reiterates a judge’s discretion for the terms of sentencing and cost recovery for damages, plus community service to repair damages. The bill doesn’t apply to private property or any permitted or government-approved shooting range.

The proposed legislation defines an exploding target as "a device designed for use as a target consisting of a flammable substance or substances capable of exploding when struck by a bullet or projectile."

Last year, exploding targets ignited eight fires in Idaho. In July alone, they caused five fires in the eastern part of the state, which is what prompted Stennett to bring the bill forward. 

To become law, Senate Bill 1178 still needs approval from the House and the governor’s signature.