The bill amends sections 85-2-316 and 85-2-331 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to extend the deadline for perfection of certain water reservations above Fort Peck Dam. Specifically, it allows state, political subdivisions, or federal agencies to apply for water reservations in the Missouri River basin and Little Missouri River basin, with a new deadline for applications above Fort Peck Dam. The bill also provides the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation with rulemaking authority to establish procedures for the application process and outlines the criteria for issuing water reservations, including considerations for public interest and the need for the reservation.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the department to review existing water reservations every ten years and allows for modifications or extensions of reservations if the objectives are not being met. It specifies that certain water reservations established by the Board of Natural Resources and Conservation above Fort Peck Dam are not considered perfected until the reservant has completed the necessary steps. The bill also mandates that the Secretary of State notify tribal governments of the new legislation and establishes an immediate effective date upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 85-2-316, 85-2-331
SB0357_1: 85-2-316, 85-2-331