2025 Montana Legislative Session
The legislative session is currently in full swing! The Gallatin Watershed Council is advocating for our community's vision of clean and abundant water, healthy rivers, and sustainable water management for future generations. Significant changes are being proposed for water management and administration. Many of the bills currently under consideration could impact our local water resources and the ability of stakeholders to manage them. We’re here to keep you informed and put them on your radar!
We're looking at bills related to water resources, including changes to the regulation of water rights, water quality standards, land use planning and subdivision review, and local government authority. Find a few below:
Nutrient Regulations
HB 664, Repeal numeric nutrient standards
HB 736, Provide nutrient pollutant loading offsets
HB 685, Feasibility allowance for nondegradation policy
Water Rights Permitting Exemptions
SB 358, Revise exempt water rights
SB 436, Generally revise laws relating to exempt wells
HB 704, Generally revise ground water laws
Regulation of Water Rights
HB 580, Clarify water right abandonment
Land Use Planning and Subdivision Laws
SB 262, Exempt subdivision, water/sewer plans from environmental review
HB 534, Allow county water and/or sewer districts to connect to a system beyond capacity
HB 629, Revise laws related to a proposed subdivision's connection to a public water supply or wastewater system
HB 658, Revise local board of health sanitation powers and rules
HB 681, Revise subdivision regulation laws involving determination of water availability
Find the bills that came out of the Department of Natural Resources Comprehensive Water Review Stakeholder Working Group.
HB 256, Creation of Montana Water Trust and Special Revenue Accounts, DNRC Handout
HB 432, Revise water laws concerning exceptions to change in the appropriation process, DNRC Bill Handout
HB 441, Align provisional water rights with final decrees, DNRC Bill Handout
SB 190, Allow water right holders to consent to waive adverse effects analysis in permit or change applications, DNRC Bill Handout
SB 358, Revise exempt water rights, DNRC Bill Hando
LC1454 (no bill number yet), Efficient administration of Water Rights, DNRC Bill
As these bills move through the legislative process, it’s crucial that Senators and Representatives hear directly from those who understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the Gallatin. By sharing your experiences and expertise, you can help ensure that water policies reflect the needs of our growing communities. Your input will play a key role in shaping policies that prioritize the goals of the Collaborative related to resilient lands, water quality, and water availability. Find ways to engage below.
Engage
Your story and experience is your most powerful tool for change, share it.
Contact your local legislator if you have a bill you support/oppose, attend a committee hearing, or submit public comment. Find other helpful links below.
Contact Legislators and Committees:
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