Bill > HB256

This bill creates a new Montana Water Development State Special Revenue Account and establishes a specific revenue allocation mechanism for water-related projects. The account will be funded through state gifts, legislative transfers, and its own interest earnings, with an initial transfer of $100 million from the general fund ($50 million in 2025 and $50 million in 2026). The bill mandates that 90% of the account's investment earnings will be distributed to the existing Water Storage State Special Revenue Account, which supports state-owned water storage project construction, operation, rehabilitation, and maintenance. The remaining 10% of earnings will be directed to the Natural Resources Projects State Special Revenue Account, specifically for water storage pilot projects and dam inspections. The bill amends existing statutes to incorporate these new funding provisions, ensuring that the newly created account's earnings are strategically allocated to support water infrastructure and resource management in Montana. The account becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval, allowing for prompt implementation of the new funding structure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2024