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Bill

LC 2107

Generally revise exempt well laws

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill to revise exempt well regulations died in the legislative process, leaving water access rules for private well owners unchanged.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 2107

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 2107 seeks to revise Montana's exempt well laws, which typically allow property owners to drill and use wells without obtaining a state water permit under certain conditions. The specific revisions are not detailed in the available legislative record, but the bill underwent drafting in late 2024 and early 2025 before dying in process in May 2025.

Why is this important

Exempt well laws directly affect property rights, water access, and agricultural operations across Montana. Changes to these laws could impact thousands of landowners' ability to develop water resources on their property, influence groundwater management, and potentially affect existing surface water rights holders who compete for the same water sources.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. water conservation: Debates typically arise between those who view exempt wells as fundamental property rights versus those concerned about unregulated groundwater depletion
  • Agricultural impacts: Farmers and ranchers may oppose restrictions on exempt wells, while environmental and downstream water users may support stricter regulations
  • Regulatory burden: Disagreement over whether revisions add compliance costs and bureaucratic complexity or provide necessary oversight

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

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