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LC 4169

Generally revise ground water laws

2025 Regular Session

Montana draft bill LC 4169 proposes revisions to groundwater laws, potentially affecting agricultural, municipal, and environmental water interests statewide.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
#rulemaking #water
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Bill Summary · LC 4169

Legislative bill overview

LC 4169 is a draft bill in Montana that proposes comprehensive revisions to the state's groundwater laws. The bill remains in early drafting stages and has not yet been formally introduced to the legislature, so specific provisions are not yet publicly available.

Why is this important

Groundwater is critical for Montana's agriculture, municipal water supplies, and ecosystem health. Revisions to groundwater laws can affect water rights allocations, extraction rates, environmental protections, and the balance between agricultural, industrial, and residential water needs across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural vs. environmental interests: Farmers and ranchers may resist restrictions on groundwater extraction, while conservation groups may push for stricter protections
  • Water rights doctrine: Changes could affect existing water rights holders and the priority system for new allocations, potentially creating winners and losers
  • Regulatory burden: Businesses and landowners may oppose increased permitting requirements or monitoring obligations, while public interest groups may demand stronger oversight

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

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