This bill revises the distribution of funds for the remediation of abandoned metal mines in Montana, specifically addressing the CR Kendall mine reclamation site and the Libby asbestos Superfund site. It mandates a biennial transfer of $500,000 for maintenance and water treatment at the CR Kendall site, which must be completed before allocating funds for metal mine reclamation projects. Additionally, the bill extends the state's contribution for cleanup, operation, and maintenance at the Libby asbestos site, ensuring that 50% of the funds in the environmental quality protection fund are dedicated to this purpose. The bill also amends existing legal provisions to clarify the allocation of funds and the prioritization of remedial actions based on their potential impact on human health and the environment.

Furthermore, the bill includes amendments to the orphan share state special revenue account, allowing for the transfer of funds to support long-term water treatment efforts. It specifies that after making the required biennial deposit, the department may transfer $1.2 million annually to the long-term water treatment permanent trust fund until a specified fund balance is achieved. The bill also extends the termination date of certain provisions from June 30, 2027, to June 30, 2038, ensuring continued funding and support for these environmental remediation efforts. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(1): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(2): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(3): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(4): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(5): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(6): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1(7): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_1: 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_2: 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X(1): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X(2): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X(3): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X(4): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X(5): 75-10-704, 75-10-743
HB0058_X: 75-10-704, 75-10-743