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Bill

Bill

HB 189

Revise the petroleum storage tank cleanup eligibility requirements

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marta Bertoglio

Montana law signed April 2025 modifies petroleum storage tank cleanup program eligibility requirements, potentially shifting remediation cost responsibility between state, municipalities, and private property owners.

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Bill Summary · HB 189

Legislative bill overview

HB 189 revises the eligibility requirements for Montana's petroleum storage tank cleanup program, modifying which contaminated sites and responsible parties qualify for state remediation assistance. The bill has been signed into law as of April 17, 2025, with implementation details to follow state administrative procedures.

Why is this important

Petroleum storage tank contamination affects groundwater quality, public health, and property values across Montana. Changes to cleanup eligibility can significantly impact which communities and landowners receive remediation support versus bearing cleanup costs themselves, making this relevant to rural property owners, municipalities, and environmental protection efforts.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of eligibility changes: Unclear whether revised requirements expand or narrow who qualifies for state-funded cleanups, affecting the financial burden on private versus public entities
  • Retroactive application: Whether changes apply to previously ineligible contaminated sites or only prospectively to new cases
  • Funding implications: Altered eligibility may increase or decrease state expenditures on remediation, affecting budget allocation and program sustainability

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

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