MontanaSB 7669th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)Senate

Revise laws related to preliminary determinations for water right permits or changes in appropriations

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Permanent water permit notice and objections

Beginning July 1, 2031, the department posts application receipt online. Within 120 days after a correct and complete filing, it issues a written preliminary decision and may meet informally. If it plans to grant, it publishes a local notice with facts and any conditions, mails notice to affected users, buyers under contract for deed, and agencies, and files proof of service. The notice sets an objection deadline 15 to 60 days after publication. If it plans to deny, the formal hearing process applies.

Temporary water permit timeline and input

The law sets a temporary review process for water-right permits and changes through June 30, 2031. The department posts applications online and issues a draft in 60 days, or 120 days if prep work is missing. Applicants can ask within 15 business days for up to 180 extra days to submit more proof; an updated draft comes within 60 days after that. Draft denials get a hearing. Draft grants get public notice and up to 30 days for comments from people who would be harmed. Notice is online, in a local paper, and mailed to affected water users, buyers under contract for deed, and agencies. The department answers comments and issues a decision within 30 days; if no comments, the draft becomes final. Granted cases can face formal objections.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Sue Vinton
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Russ Miner
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 288 • No: 4

Senate vote • 2/18/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 98 • No: 1

Senate vote • 2/14/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 94 • No: 0

Senate vote • 1/20/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 48 • No: 1

Senate vote • 1/17/2025