75-5-307. Hearings required for classification, formulation of standards, and rulemaking. (1) Before streams are classified or standards established or modified or rules made, revoked, or modified, the department shall hold a public hearing. Notice of the hearing specifying the waters concerned and the classification, standards, or modification of them and any rules proposed to be made, revoked, or modified must be published at least once a week for 3 consecutive weeks in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the area affected. Notice must be mailed directly to persons the department believes may be affected by the proposed action. The council must be given not less than 30 days prior to first publication to comment on the proposed action.

(2) At a hearing held under this section, the department shall give all interested persons reasonable opportunity to submit data, views, or arguments, orally or in writing. The department may make rules for the orderly conduct of the hearing but need not require compliance with the rules of evidence or procedure applicable to hearings held under 75-5-611.