Montana legislative update

As 'Defenders of the Watershed', the Flathead Lakers are following bills in the 2021 Legislative Session that potentially impact the Flathead Watershed. We ask our members to contact their representative, and OPPOSE SB 115 & SB 165.

OPPOSE SB 115, carried by Rep. Keith Regier (R): Establish acquisitions requiring land board consideration.

This bill would require the Montana Land Board to approve all conservation easements purchased by the state of Montana, making it harder for willing landowners to conserve their lands and provide public access. Development is increasing in the Flathead area, and conservation easements provide an incentive to landowners to protect critical lands that help sustain our clean water, provide valuable habitat for native fish and wildlife, and enhance recreational opportunities. SB 115 is significant, as it would add an unnecessary layer of red tape to the easement process. The bill will be voted on in the House before going to the Governor’s desk for final approval.

OPPOSE SB 165, carried by Carl Glimm (R): Generally revise laws related to the Department of Environmental Quality.

This bill would eliminate sanitation review for subdivisions of land that are greater than 500 feet from surface waters, and exempt minor subdivisions of land from having to conduct a storm drainage review. It would also exempt expansions of systems designed for wastewater disposal, storm water, and solid waste disposal from review. SB 165 will lead to increased septic and pollution runoff, threatening future water quality in the Flathead Watershed and Montana waters.

ACTION: Call the Capitol Switchboard to leave a message for your representative at (406) 444-4800, or send them an online message HERE, and tell them to vote NO on SB 115 & SB 165. The Capitol Switchboard is open between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Click HERE to find out who your legislators are.