A bill that would facilitate the development of a private sector horse processing plant in Montana is on its way back to Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s desk now that the state’s full legislature has rejected his amended version of the measure.  

In its original form, HB 418 prohibited Montana courts from granting injunctions to stop or delay horse processing plant construction based on permit or licensing challenges, or on environmental grounds. It also required anyone challenging permits to submit a surety bond representing 20% of the facility’s estimated building cost, and it awarded attorney and court fees to plaintiffs in cases District Courts deem harassing or without merit.

The bill passed both houses of Montana’s legislature in March. But on April 3, Schweitzer vetoed the measure, removed protections against licensing and court challenges, and sent his amended version back to the legislature for review.

April 16, the state’s Senate voted 44-5 to reject the governor’s amendments and return the bill to its original form. The Senate vote mirrors an earlier action by Montana House members who voted 59-41 against the changes