Bill > HB59

This bill revises several laws governing water well contractors in Montana, making multiple key changes to improve regulation and safety. The bill modifies who can contract on behalf of a licensed water well contractor, clarifying that the licensed water well contractor must be the individual who contracts for the firm, and ensures that a licensed water well driller is employed by the licensed contractor. It expands licensure requirements to explicitly include well abandonment and decommissioning activities, and increases the required surety bond amount from $4,000 to $25,000 for individual contractors and from $10,000 to $25,000 for firms with multiple licensed contractors. The bill also adjusts complaint and investigation procedures, giving licensees an opportunity to respond to complaints before potential disciplinary action and providing the board with more flexible options for addressing violations, such as requiring additional training, placing probationary terms on licenses, or suspending/revoking licenses. Additionally, the bill maintains an exemption for individuals drilling wells on their own agricultural land or residence, provided they obtain a permit and follow minimum construction standards. These changes aim to enhance professional standards, protect public interests, and ensure more rigorous oversight of water well construction and related activities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/20251/LC0555