Montana Regulatory Program
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Rule
Summary
Montana updated some rules about coal mining, especially how they define damage to the environment and what info miners must provide about water. The federal government said yes to some changes but no to others. These updates affect miners and regulators starting February 14, 2025, helping keep mining safer and clearer without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Hydrologic damage standard kept strict
If you operate a coal mine in Montana, the federal-style definition of “material damage” to the hydrologic balance remains in Montana law as of February 14, 2025. Montana’s proposed change to require only “significant long-term or permanent” impacts was disapproved, so violations of water quality standards or degradation/reduction of water outside the permit area continue to be treated as material damage.
Alluvial valley protections approved
In Montana, effective February 14, 2025, the definition of “material damage” for alluvial valley floors is approved to mean degradation or reduction of the water supplied to the valley floor that significantly decreases its ability to support agricultural activities. This approved language aligns with the federal approach and applies in Montana.
Subsidence protections preserved
Montana’s proposed narrower definition of material damage from subsidence was disapproved, so Montana must continue to follow the federal approach that includes both structures and facilities when assessing subsidence damage as of February 14, 2025. This affects property and facility protections near underground coal mines in Montana.
Baseline water data required for permits
Starting February 14, 2025, Montana may not remove the requirement that permit applicants use baseline hydrologic information from the appropriate Federal or State agency and that a permit not be approved until that information is available and incorporated (MCA 82-4-222(1)(m)). Permit applications must include the necessary hydrologic data before approval.
State’s immediate/retroactive changes not valid
Montana provisions in HB 576 that would make the law effective on passage or apply it retroactively were found contrary to SMCRA and federal regulations, so those parts do not take effect for the State program. Changes to the Montana program do not apply until OSMRE approves them and do not retroactively alter pending permits or judicial actions.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12272 — Resin Acids, Esters With Glycerol in Pesticide Formulations; Exemption From the Requirement for a Tolerance
The EPA just made it official: resin acids mixed with glycerol can be used in pesticides on crops without worrying about residue limits. This means farmers, food makers, and pesticide companies get a smoother ride—no more setting max residue levels for this ingredient. The rule kicks in June 18, 2026, and if anyone wants to object, they have until August 17, 2026 to speak up.
2026-12303 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Cook Inlet; Final 2026 Harvest Specifications for Salmon
The 2026 salmon fishing rules for Cook Inlet, Alaska, are set and ready to go starting June 17, 2026. These new limits help protect salmon populations while supporting local fishermen and communities. If you fish or buy salmon from this area, expect smart management that balances nature and business through next year.
2026-12324 — Reducing Bureaucracy and Burden for Native American Programs
This new rule cuts out old, confusing paperwork and rules for Native American programs, making it easier for tribes and Native organizations to get grants and support. It affects Native communities across the U.S. and kicks in on August 17, 2026, helping save time and reduce hassle without changing funding amounts. Basically, it’s a smoother, faster way to boost Native-led projects and community growth.
2026-12277 — Special Conditions: Honeywell Aerospace US LLC, Dassault Aviation Model Falcon 900EX Airplane; Electronic System Security Protection From Unauthorized External Access
Honeywell Aerospace is upgrading the Dassault Falcon 900EX with new digital systems that connect the plane to outside networks like the internet and wireless devices. Because this is a new kind of tech for airplanes, the FAA is setting special safety rules to keep hackers out and protect the plane’s electronics. These rules take effect June 18, 2026, and Honeywell must follow them to keep flights safe without extra costs for passengers.
2026-12307 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Quota Transfer From North Carolina to Virginia
North Carolina is sharing part of its 2026 summer flounder fishing quota with Virginia to help both states meet their fishing goals. This change starts June 17, 2026, and lasts through the end of the year, making sure the fishery stays balanced and fair. Commercial fishers in both states will see updated limits, keeping the summer flounder fishery healthy and on track.
2026-12376 — Final Waivers and Extensions of the Project Periods With Funding for the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program and the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Training and Technical Assistance Center
The Department of Education is giving 43 American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services projects and one Training and Technical Assistance Center extra time and money to keep helping through September 30, 2027. They’re waiving rules that usually limit projects to five years so these programs can continue their important work without interruption. This extension starts July 20, 2026, making sure support for American Indian communities stays strong and steady.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00328 — Prohibited Transaction Exemption (PTE) 2002-51 To Permit Certain Transactions Identified in the Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program
The Department of Labor is updating a special rule that helps fix mistakes in retirement plans without penalties. This change makes it easier and more helpful for employers and others to correct errors and avoid taxes on those fixes. The new rules kick in on March 17, 2025, and affect retirement plans, their participants, and anyone involved in these corrections.
Next: 2025-00381 — Truth in Lending (Regulation Z); Consumer Credit Offered to Borrowers in Advance of Expected Receipt of Compensation for Work
Starting January 15, 2025, the CFPB is changing the rules about payday-style loans that let workers get paid early before their paycheck arrives. This update means these 'earned wage advance' products are now officially considered credit, so lenders must follow stricter rules to protect borrowers. If you’re someone who uses or offers these early-pay loans, get ready for clearer protections and fairer terms!