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LC 2237

Constitutional amendment providing for economically viable environment

2025 Regular Session

Montana constitutional amendment would establish a right to an economically viable environment, balancing environmental protection with economic considerations in state law.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 2237

Legislative bill overview

LC 2237 is a proposed constitutional amendment for Montana that would establish a right to an economically viable environment. The bill would amend Montana's constitution to recognize environmental protection as a fundamental right while incorporating economic considerations into environmental policy. The amendment died in the legislative process before advancing to a floor vote.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments carry the highest legal weight and would fundamentally reshape how Montana balances environmental protection against economic interests. This could affect regulatory decisions on mining, agriculture, energy development, and land use across the state. Such amendments reflect evolving public values about environmental stewardship and its relationship to economic prosperity.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "economically viable": The phrase is legally ambiguous and could be interpreted broadly by courts or narrowly by legislators, creating uncertainty for both environmental advocates and business interests
  • Enforcement mechanism: It's unclear how citizens could enforce this right or what remedies would be available, potentially creating litigation burdens on the courts
  • Development restrictions: Agricultural, extractive, and energy industries may view this as constraining economic activities, while environmentalists might see "economically viable" as a loophole that prioritizes profit over protection

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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