Bill
LC 2819
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2819, Title: Revise environmental laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 11, 2024Purpose and Intent: The primary objective of this
Overview: Bill Number: LC 2819, Title: Revise environmental laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 11, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The primary objective of this bill is to update and strengthen Montana's environmental protection laws to address emerging issues and ensure the long-term sustainability of the state's natural resources. The legislation aims to enhance regulations, enforcement, and public engagement in environmental decision-making.
Key Provisions:
- Increase penalties for environmental violations, including higher fines and potential jail time
- Mandate the consideration of cumulative environmental impacts in permitting decisions
- Establish a citizen suit provision allowing private parties to enforce environmental laws
- Require comprehensive environmental impact assessments for major development projects
- Create a state-level environmental justice office to address disproportionate impacts
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would primarily impact industries and businesses that engage in activities with potential environmental impacts, such as mining, energy production, and manufacturing. These entities would face stricter regulations, increased compliance costs, and greater public scrutiny. Environmental advocacy groups and affected communities would also play a more prominent role in environmental decision-making.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill was introduced in the Montana Legislature but did not progress further and died in the drafting process. If reintroduced in a future session, it would need to go through the full legislative process of committee hearings, floor votes, and potential reconciliation between the House and Senate before being sent to the governor for signature or veto.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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