Montana court grants motion for preliminary injunction on suit related to recently enacted Montana Law

Court respects private business contract originally agreed to over four decades ago

BELLEVUE, Wash. (10/13/2021) Puget Sound Energy is pleased with today’s ruling by the U.S. District Court in Montana which clears the pathway so Colstrip owners can plan for the future of the facility. The court granted a motion for preliminary injunction on Montana Senate Bill 266, which PSE and co-plaintiffs argued violates Commerce and Contract Clauses of the United States Constitution.

“The legislative action and stakeholder support associated with SB 266 was a disheartening development in the face of PSE’s effort to explore constructive solutions,” said PSE General Counsel Steve Secrist. “PSE has consistently worked for constructive solutions regarding Colstrip, including the exploration of transactions and even financial contributions for the Colstrip community. Today’s ruling affirms PSE’s approach and intent.”

There are unavoidable environmental and economic realities associated with Colstrip, and this decision allows the owners to continue to make decisions under the existing ownership and operations agreement determined more than 40 years ago.

Media Contact:
Melanie Coon, 888-831-7250, psenewsroom@pse.com

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