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LC 4191

Generally revise laws relating to exempt wells

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill proposes revising exempt well laws to modify groundwater permitting and usage rules affecting landowners and water resource management.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 4191

Legislative bill overview

LC 4191 is a Montana bill currently in draft form that proposes comprehensive revisions to state laws governing exempt wells—privately owned wells that are generally exempt from water rights permitting requirements. The specific provisions have not yet been publicly released, as the bill remains in the legislative drafting process and has not been introduced to either chamber.

Why is this important

Exempt well regulations directly affect Montana landowners' ability to develop groundwater resources without state permits, while also influencing overall water management, aquifer sustainability, and downstream water availability. Changes to these laws could significantly impact agricultural operations, rural development, and ongoing disputes between private water users and environmental/agricultural stakeholders over groundwater depletion in critical basins.

Potential points of contention

  • Permitting requirements: Whether changes would expand or restrict the exemptions that allow wells without state permits
  • Groundwater management: Balancing private property rights against concerns about aquifer depletion and interstate water agreements
  • Rural vs. environmental interests: Tension between landowner convenience and conservation groups' concerns about unregulated groundwater extraction

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

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