Bill
LC 2959
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2959, Title: Generally revise Montana environmental policy act, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 13, 2024Purpose and Intent: The m
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2959, Title: Generally revise Montana environmental policy act, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 13, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The main goal of this bill is to revise and update Montana's environmental policy act (MEPA) to address evolving environmental challenges and concerns. The bill aims to modernize MEPA's provisions, streamline the environmental review process, and balance environmental protection with economic development.
Key Provisions:
- Expand the scope of MEPA to include consideration of climate change impacts and greenhouse gas emissions
- Establish timelines and deadlines for environmental review processes to improve efficiency
- Modify public participation requirements to focus on substantive issues rather than procedural technicalities
- Limit the ability to challenge MEPA decisions in court to cases where there is a clear showing of significant harm
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- State and local government agencies responsible for environmental reviews and permitting
- Businesses and industries subject to MEPA requirements, such as energy, mining, and construction
- Environmental advocacy groups and the general public interested in environmental protection
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill is currently in the draft (LC) stage and has not been formally introduced in the legislature. If introduced, it would need to go through the standard legislative process, including committee hearings and votes in both the House and Senate, before potentially being signed into law by the governor.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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