Confirm governor's appointee for board of oil and gas conservation
Summary
SR 97 is a Senate resolution that confirms the Governor’s appointment of Corey Welter of Billings to the Montana Board of Oil and Gas Conservation for a term ending January 2, 2029. The resolution states that the Senate concurs in, confirms, and consents to the appointment, and directs the Secretary of the Senate to transmit the resolution to the Secretary of State and the Governor as required by law.
This measure does not create new policy, regulate oil and gas activity, or amend substantive statutes. Its legal effect is limited to completing the Senate confirmation process for a gubernatorial appointee to a state board that oversees oil and gas conservation matters in Montana.
Impact
SR 97 affects the membership of the Board of Oil and Gas Conservation under Montana’s appointment and confirmation statutes, specifically the provisions governing gubernatorial appointments and Senate consent. By approving the appointment, the Senate enables the named individual to serve on the board for the stated term, but the resolution does not alter the board’s powers, duties, or underlying regulatory framework for oil and gas conservation.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SR 97 appears strongly favorable and routine. The resolution passed the Senate Energy, Technology & Federal Relations Committee unanimously and then passed the full Senate by a 48-0 vote, indicating broad bipartisan agreement and little to no controversy. The absence of committee testimony or recorded debate suggests the appointment was treated as a standard confirmation matter.
Contention
There is no notable recorded contention in the available materials. No committee transcripts are provided, and the vote totals show unanimous support in committee and on the Senate floor. Any potential concerns would likely have centered on the qualifications or policy views of the appointee, but none are reflected in the bill history or vote record provided.