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SJ 18

Resolution supporting recreation uses on Flathead Lake

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Regier

Montana's SJ 18 formally backs Flathead Lake recreation and urges federal agencies to prioritize and protect public recreational access in lake management.

(S) Filed with Secretary of State
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Bill Summary · SJ 18

Summary — SJ 18: Resolution supporting recreation uses on Flathead Lake

Status: Joint resolution — Filed with Secretary of State (May 5, 2025)
Primary sponsor: Sen. Matt Regier
Classification: General joint resolution (Federal Government / Water / Recreation)

Purpose and intent

SJ 18 is a legislative resolution that formally expresses the Montana Legislature’s support for recreational uses of Flathead Lake. As a joint resolution, its principal purpose is to state the Legislature’s position and to communicate that position to the federal government and other relevant parties. It is not, by itself, an act that changes state statute or creates binding regulatory requirements.

Key provisions (based on resolution type and title)

The official text of the resolution is not included here. Generally, a resolution of this type typically:
- Declares the Legislature’s support for continued public recreational access and recreational activities on Flathead Lake.
- Requests or urges federal agencies and the federal government to consider, maintain, or prioritize recreational uses in federal management, permitting, or water operations that affect Flathead Lake.
- Recognizes the economic, social, and environmental importance of lake-based recreation to local communities and the state.
- May request federal coordination with state and local governments and stakeholders to protect recreational opportunities.

Because the bill text was not provided, the exact language and any specific requests to particular federal agencies or programs cannot be quoted here.

Who would be affected

  • Federal agencies with jurisdiction over Flathead Lake (recipients of the Legislature’s request or statement).
  • Local governments and communities around Flathead Lake that rely on recreation and tourism.
  • Businesses and individuals involved in recreational services (marinas, guide services, outfitters, lodging).
  • State agencies that coordinate with federal partners on water and recreation policy.

Procedural and timeline highlights

  • Introduced: January 8, 2025 (Senate).
  • Referred to Senate Natural Resources; hearings held (Mar 21, Jan 24); committee report favorably recommended.
  • Adopted by the Senate (Jan 28, 2025) and transmitted to the House with rules suspended and on consent calendar.
  • Referred to House Natural Resources; hearings and committee concurrence (April 2025).
  • Passed both chambers in concurrence; returned from enrolling and signed by presiding officers (May 2, 2025).
  • Filed with the Secretary of State: May 5, 2025.

Impact

As a non-binding joint resolution, SJ 18 serves primarily to articulate the state Legislature’s position and to encourage federal action consistent with that position. Its practical effect is political and communicative — it can influence federal policymakers, support local advocacy, and raise public awareness — but it does not itself alter regulations, appropriate funds, or change management authority over Flathead Lake.

Related bill: LC 2278 (replaces).

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

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