The bill revises existing laws related to water commissioners in Montana, primarily focusing on their compensation, terms of service, and accountability. Key changes include limiting the compensation of water commissioners to a maximum of 15% of the annual salary of the appointing judge, establishing a one-year term for water commissioners unless reappointed, and requiring them to reside in the water division where they serve. Additionally, the bill mandates that water commissioners must purchase workers' compensation insurance and pay a $50 education fee for training programs designed to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for better accounting of costs incurred by water commissioners, requiring them to provide itemized accounts of reasonable and necessary expenses related to water distribution. It also allows for the appointment of a chief commissioner to oversee other commissioners and sets forth procedures for filing complaints by dissatisfied water users regarding the distribution of water and associated costs. The bill repeals the previous section concerning telephone expenses, streamlining the regulations governing water commissioners.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 85-5-101, 85-5-102, 85-5-104, 85-5-107, 85-5-111, 85-5-201, 85-5-204, 85-5-301