The bill aims to revise certain provisions related to strip and underground mine applications and permits in Montana, specifically focusing on cumulative hydrologic impact assessments and contested case hearing procedures. Key amendments include the requirement that individuals who submit comments or objections during the application process may request a hearing on department decisions, and the introduction of a cumulative hydrologic impact assessment that must be published if required. Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for determining the administrative completeness of permit applications and outlines the timeline for department notifications and hearings.

Furthermore, the bill includes new sections that establish a saving clause, ensuring that rights and duties that matured before the act's effective date remain unaffected, and a severability clause, which maintains the validity of the remaining provisions if any part of the act is found invalid. It also introduces a contingent voidness provision, stating that if any part of the act is disapproved by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, that portion will be void. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 82-4-206, 82-4-231