Aug. 31, 2022 – In Montana, House Bill 599 was pitched by Rep. Steve Gunderson (R-Libby,) as one that would cut the red-tape of environmental laws and reviews to allow for “high and dry” open-cut gravel and mining operations. However, a closer reading of the law shows that it substantially changed how the state regulates sand and gravel pits, including those nearby residential areas, according to the Missoula Current. Gunderson defended the changes and pointed his finger at the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, which he said may not be interpreting it correctly. Meanwhile some residents in his own district of Libby are outraged at the new law because of a proposed gravel operation there. Read the whole story.
Montana House Bill Creates Controversy
