Now here’s how you can help!
House Bill 971: Revise Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) - Sponsored by Rep. Joshua Kassmier (R-Fort Benton)
Status: Hearing scheduled in House Natural Resources on 4/16, 03:00PM Rm. 172
Montana Audubon Position: Oppose
HB 971 would repeal the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) for significant projects that could harm our environment and climate if the Montana Supreme Court were to ever find that Montanans’ right to a clean and healthful environment requires state agencies to consider climate impacts. If the court finds that climate change must be considered, then the state Department of Environment Quality does not have to comply with MEPA for air pollution permits, coal mines, hard rock and open cut permits and other mining activities.
Then, call directly to leave a message for the entire House Natural Resources Committee between 7:30 am and 5 pm: 406-444-4800
Tell the House Natural Resources Committee to VOTE NO on HB971!
Right now calling is one of the best ways to make your voice heard because there is not much time left for paper testimony to be considered!
You can include a message about how this bill interferes with individuals’ and businesses’ right to stand up for themselves and their communities. Article IX of the Montana constitution strongly states the legislature should assist the people in protecting the environment of our great state for current and future generations (read below)
Article IX, Section 1.
Protection and improvement. (1) The state and each person shall maintain and improve a clean and healthful environment in Montana for present and future generations.
(2) The legislature shall provide for the administration and enforcement of this duty.
(3) The legislature shall provide adequate remedies for the protection of the environmental life support system from degradation and provide adequate remedies to prevent unreasonable depletion and degradation of natural resources.
