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 local, state, and federal emergency activities related to various permits and authorizations, including those required for construction projects affecting navigable waterways and floodplains. New sections outline the division's responsibilities, including ensuring timely communication and tracking of permits, while also clarifying that the division cannot compel federal agencies to act.

Additionally, the bill amends several existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to incorporate the coordination requirements during emergencies. For instance, it specifies that the Department of Environmental Quality and other relevant agencies must submit to the coordination of permit activities by the Division of Disaster and Emergency Services during such times. The amendments also include changes to the notice requirements for construction projects affecting streams, ensuring that applicants notify the department and adhere to the coordination process established in the new sections. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline emergency response efforts related to water body management while maintaining environmental protections.

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