85-2-270. (Temporary) Findings -- purpose. (1) The purpose of 85-2-270 through 85-2-273, 85-2-276, and 85-2-279 through 85-2-283 is to generate revenue to adequately fund Montana's water adjudication program to:
     (a) complete claims examination and the initial decree phase;
     (b) reexamine claims in basins that were verified and were not subject to the supreme court examination rules when the water court has received a petition and issued an order pursuant to 85-2-282 or the water court has issued an order on its own initiative; and
     (c) ensure that the product of the adjudication is enforceable decrees.
     (2) With adequate funding, it is realistic and feasible for the department to complete claims examination and reexamination of verified basins for which the water court has received a petition and issued an order pursuant to 85-2-282 or the water court has issued an order on its own initiative by June 30, 2015. It is also realistic and feasible for the water court to issue a preliminary or temporary preliminary decree by June 30, 2020, for all basins in Montana.
     (3) It is essential to preserve the trust that the water users of Montana have placed in the legislature by ensuring that the revenue generated by the water adjudication fee established in 85-2-276 is used only for the purpose of adjudicating Montana's water rights. (Terminates June 30, 2020--sec. 18, Ch. 288, L. 2005.)

     History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 288, L. 2005.