House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes significant revisions to Montana's water laws, particularly concerning the process for changing appropriation rights. The bill allows appropriators to change their rights without prior approval from the department under specific conditions, such as constructing a redundant water supply well or replacing an existing well. It requires appropriators to file a notice of change within 60 days of completion and ensures that these changes do not increase water availability or negatively impact existing rights. The bill also amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), removing certain reporting requirements and allowing municipalities and water districts to change the place of use for unperfected permits without prior approval, provided they meet established criteria.

Additionally, the bill streamlines the approval process for changes in appropriation rights, particularly when involving national forest system lands, by requiring proof of special use authorization under federal law. It introduces provisions for changing appropriation rights for replacement or redundant wells without prior approval, deleting previous language that mandated such approval. The bill also establishes a process for temporary changes in appropriation rights, allowing them for up to 10 years with renewal options, while ensuring that the priority of appropriation remains unchanged. Overall, the bill aims to enhance water management efficiency while safeguarding existing water rights and environmental considerations.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1(1): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1(2): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1(3): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1(4): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1(5): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_1: 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(1): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(2): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(3): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(4): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(5): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(6): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(7): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2(8): 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407
HB0432_2: 3-7-224, 85-2-309, 85-2-402, 85-2-407