75-6-231. Intended use plan -- advisory committee. (1) The department shall prepare an annual intended use plan for the state that meets the requirements of section 300j-12(b) of the federal act, 42 U.S.C. 300j-12(b).

(2) The intended use plan must include:

(a) a list of projects in the state that are eligible for assistance, including both the priority assigned to each project based on public health needs and on the financial needs of the project and, to the extent known, the expected funding schedule for each project; and

(b) a description of the funds to be allocated to activities under 75-6-212 and 75-6-221(2) and funds to be transferred to or received by the water pollution control state revolving fund, as allowed in 75-6-211(5), for the annual fiscal period following publication of the intended use plan.

(3) Before finalizing an intended use plan, the department shall prepare a draft document containing the information required in subsection (2) and shall provide public notice and opportunity to comment on the draft document.

(4) (a) Following the public comment period provided for in subsection (3) and any department modifications to the intended use plan resulting from the public comment, a summary of the public comment and the intended use plan must be presented for review, comment, and recommendations to an advisory committee formed by the department and consisting of six individuals from the following entities appointed by their respective presiding officers, directors, or executive officials:

(i) one member from the Montana league of cities and towns;

(ii) one member from the Montana association of counties;

(iii) one member from the department of natural resources and conservation;

(iv) one member from the department of environmental quality; and

(v) two members from the legislature. One member must be from the house of representatives and one from the senate, and subject to 5-5-234, one must be from the majority party and one must be from the minority party.

(b) The advisory committee is attached to the department for administrative purposes only.

(5) The department shall address in writing any comments and recommendations provided by the advisory committee provided for in subsection (4) before finalizing an intended use plan and prior to awarding any contracts under 75-6-212(1)(g).