House Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to revise Montana's groundwater laws by establishing temporary legislative controlled groundwater closure and monitoring areas in regions such as the Gallatin Valley, Helena Valley, Bitterroot Valley, and Missoula Valley. The bill requires a permit for groundwater appropriation in these areas, with exceptions for small appropriations, such as those for single living units or stockwater, under specific conditions. It mandates metering and reporting for all new water rights and authorizations to ensure effective monitoring of groundwater usage. The bill also introduces new language allowing certain appropriations without a permit in the Rye Creek stream depletion zone, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and reporting groundwater usage.

Additionally, the bill amends existing water rights laws, particularly regarding the permitting process for constructing impoundments or pits and the management of controlled groundwater areas. It establishes a 60-day timeline for appropriators to apply for a permit post-construction, which will be automatically issued unless it adversely affects other rights. The bill introduces new classifications for controlled groundwater areas, modifies the designation process, and outlines criteria for municipalities and counties to petition for these areas. It also prohibits changes in the purpose of water rights exempt from permitting and mandates the development of monitoring plans for designated areas. The bill includes provisions for codification, an effective date upon passage, and a termination date set for January 1, 2032.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524
HB0704_1(1): 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524
HB0704_1(2): 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524
HB0704_1(3): 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524
HB0704_1: 85-2-113, 85-2-306, 85-2-381, 85-2-506, 85-2-524