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Long, contested hearing on HB 285: sponsors say MEPA is procedural; opponents warn of weakened protections
Summary
House Bill 285 would amend the Montana Environmental Policy Act to emphasize that MEPA is a procedural disclosure law, not a substantive permitting statute; proponents said the change restores legislative intent, while opponents warned the language would weaken environmental review and public protections.
Speaker Laird opened testimony on House Bill 285 by describing the bill as a reorganization and clarification of the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) intended to emphasize MEPA’s procedural, informational role rather than a substantive permitting statute.
Proponents — including consulting practitioners, the Montana Coal Council, Treasure State Resources Association, the Montana Petroleum Association, Montana Chamber of Commerce, and electric cooperatives — said HB 285 would provide regulatory certainty, prevent courts from using MEPA to deny permits beyond the scope of underlying substantive statutes, and align…
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