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Committee debates costs, definitions as sponsor seeks statutory definition of 'tribal consultation'
Summary
Sen. Susan Weber asked the committee to adopt SB379 to codify a single statutory definition of 'tribal consultation' and provide guidance for liaisons; tribal representatives supported the policy approach, while DNRC and Montana Historical Society flagged potential fiscal impacts and staffing needs.
Sen. Susan Weber opened the Senate Finance and Claims hearing on Senate Bill 379, saying the bill would define tribal consultation in statute and provide guidance for what a tribal liaison should do. "It defines what tribal consultation is finally," Weber said, arguing the change is primarily policy and that many agencies already engage tribes.
Patrick Yawaki, representing the Blackfeet, Fort Belknap and Chippewa Cree tribes, urged the committee to treat SB379 as non‑fiscal guidance and said departments can designate existing staff to fulfill consultation roles.…
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