MontanaHB 53469th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)HouseWALLET

Allow county water and/or sewer districts to connect to a system beyond capacity

Sponsored By: Courtenay Sprunger (Republican)

Became Law

Environmental ProtectionCountiesWaterHealthHousingLocal GovernmentRule Making

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

60-day decision on snowmaking wastewater

DEQ must issue a written decision within 60 days on applications to use reclaimed wastewater for snowmaking. The decision approves, approves with conditions, or denies the request. It must list any extra permits or water-right authorizations the applicant must get first.

Tighter steps for subdivision water approvals

When a subdivision uses a DEQ-approved development plan, the local government must require the subdivider to finish water and sewer work before the final plat. The subdivider must provide a DEQ letter showing needed certifications and as-builts were received and that the provider follows the plan. An approved plan can serve only subdivisions reviewed under Title 76, chapter 3 where the governing body requires DEQ certification before final plat approval. Certifying authorities cannot rely on a plan to certify service outside those cases.

Rules to add connections beyond capacity

The law creates a DEQ-reviewed development plan so municipal or eligible county water and sewer districts can add customers beyond current capacity. A plan must show rated capacity now and after upgrades, set milestones and timelines, and follow design standards, discharge limits, and water-right limits. DEQ only approves plans that protect public health and the environment, follow state water and sewer laws, and do not exceed the system’s approved rated capacity or water rights. Districts submit a plan only if they want to exceed current capacity. Approved plans require yearly compliance reports. DEQ may modify or revoke approvals and can penalize violations.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Courtenay Sprunger
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Greg Hertz
Republican • Senate
Llew Jones
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 288 • No: 6

House vote • 4/14/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 47 • No: 1

House vote • 4/12/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 49 • No: 0

House vote • 3/4/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 95 • No: 4

House vote • 3/3/2025