Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws regarding water rights that are exempt from permitting in Montana. The bill introduces the definition of "combined appropriation," which refers to the appropriation of water from the same source aquifer by two or more groundwater developments that could have been accomplished by a single appropriation. It specifies that a combined appropriation does not need to be physically connected and can involve individual developed springs or wells. Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions and provisions related to water rights, beneficial use, and exceptions to permit requirements, including changes to the maximum allowable appropriation rates and volumes for groundwater outside controlled areas.

The bill also includes a new section requiring the Secretary of State to notify each federally recognized tribal government in Montana about the enactment of this legislation. Key amendments to Section 85-2-306 include adjustments to the thresholds for groundwater appropriation without a permit, specifically changing the limits for appropriations in both controlled and uncontrolled areas. The bill aims to streamline the process for groundwater development while ensuring that the rights of existing water users are protected.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(1): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(2): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(3): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(4): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(5): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1(6): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_1: 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(1): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(2): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(3): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(4): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(5): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(6): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(7): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2(8): 85-2-102, 85-2-306
SB0436_2: 85-2-102, 85-2-306