MontanaHB 4069th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Revise public water supply fee accounts

Sponsored By: John Fitzpatrick (Republican)

Signed by Governor

HousingPlanningWaterRevenue, StateRule Making

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.

36-month freeze on approved water designs

Beginning July 1, 2025, once the Department gives written approval, design rules for that water facility stay fixed for 36 months. Parts not built within 36 months must be resubmitted. Projects that need certain other permits are excluded.

Cities can raise water rates without hearing

Beginning July 1, 2025, city water systems can raise customer rates to recover state program fees without holding a public hearing. If you get water from a municipal system, your bill can go up to cover those fees.

New DEQ plan review fees

Beginning July 1, 2025, the Department sets fees by rule to review plans for public water or sewage systems. Fees must match the agency’s cost to review your plans. If you submit plans, you pay a review fee.

Faster snowmaking approvals, extra permit step

Beginning July 1, 2025, the Department must issue a written decision within 60 days on requests to use reclaimed wastewater for snowmaking. Applicants must first get any needed authorizations from the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. If approval is conditional, the Department lists what else is required.

Dedicated accounts for water program fees

Beginning July 1, 2025, annual public drinking water fees go into a dedicated state fund. The money can only pay the Department of Environmental Quality’s costs to run the public drinking water program. Plan and specification review fees go into a separate plan review account and can only pay review work. The Department also sets fee rules through the normal rulemaking process. These accounts are funded by fees paid by systems and applicants.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

John Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Shane Morigeau
Democrat • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 299 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/15/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 49 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/2/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 50 • No: 0

House vote • 1/30/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 100 • No: 0

House vote • 1/24/2025