Bill > HB285

This bill generally revises Montana's Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) by clarifying its procedural nature and purpose. The bill reaffirms that MEPA is primarily a data-gathering and analytical tool intended to provide objective information to the public, agency decision-makers, and lawmakers, without creating additional regulatory authority. Key provisions include establishing that the environmental review process is meant to provide a balanced view of competing social, economic, and environmental goals, and ensure that agencies cannot withhold or deny permits based solely on environmental review findings. The bill also modifies legal procedures for challenging environmental reviews, including requiring plaintiffs to establish the unconstitutionality of underlying statutes and limiting venue for legal challenges to the county where the proposed activity will occur. Additionally, the bill eliminates several existing sections of law related to MEPA's policy and goals, streamlining the statute and emphasizing that the act is procedural in nature. The legislation aims to foster informed decision-making while protecting private property rights and supporting environmentally and economically sound development in Montana.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2957