Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to enhance the coordination of stream, wetland, floodplain, and other water body permitting during a state of emergency or disaster as proclaimed by the governor. The bill authorizes the Division of Disaster and Emergency Services to oversee and coordinate various local, state, and federal emergency activities related to specific permits and authorizations, including those required for construction projects affecting navigable waterways and floodplains. New sections outline the division's responsibilities during emergencies, emphasizing the need for timely communication and collaboration among agencies involved in permitting processes.

Additionally, the bill amends several existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to reflect these changes. Notably, it introduces provisions that require the Department of Environmental Quality and other relevant agencies to submit to the coordination of permit activities by the Division during emergencies. The amendments also clarify the conditions under which short-term water quality standards for turbidity may be authorized and establish the necessity for coordination with the Division during emergency actions. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the permitting process in times of crisis while ensuring environmental protections are maintained.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(1): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(2): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(3): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(4): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(5): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1(6): 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502
SB0123_1: 75-5-318, 75-5-402, 75-7-113, 87-5-502