Bill > HB466

This bill provides clarity and new provisions for categorical exclusions under the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). The bill defines a "categorical exclusion" as a state action that does not significantly impact the human environment and does not require an environmental assessment or impact statement, unless extraordinary circumstances exist. State agencies are now required to identify and track actions that qualify as categorical exclusions, with a rebuttable presumption that such actions do not require further environmental analysis. The bill specifically exempts the Department of Administration from environmental review for construction, renovation, or repair of state-owned buildings and infrastructure, and exempts the Department of Commerce from environmental review when authorizing or administering historic preservation grants. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutory definitions to include the new "categorical exclusion" concept and requires state agencies to make information about categorical exclusions available to the environmental quality council upon request. The bill aims to reduce confusion in implementing MEPA, provide more certainty for decision-makers and practitioners, and streamline environmental review processes for certain types of state actions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1423