The bill aims to revise laws concerning coal-fired generating units in Montana, specifically addressing maintenance costs, stranded costs, and remediation costs. It establishes that if an owner of a coal-fired generating unit ceases to utilize or fund maintenance for their share, they remain liable for future maintenance costs on a pro rata basis. Additionally, if an owner abandons their interest while another owner continues to operate the unit, the remaining owner may fund maintenance costs for a single cycle, with the abandoning owner required to reimburse any unrecovered costs. Importantly, electricity ratepayers will not be liable for maintenance and repair costs incurred due to owners who do not serve Montana ratepayers.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits utilities from seeking stranded cost reimbursement from the commission if they abandon ownership of a coal-fired generating unit before its established depreciation date, placing the financial burden on shareholders instead. It also ensures that remediation costs incurred by out-of-state owners cannot be passed on to Montana ratepayers. The bill includes provisions for codification, severability, and an immediate effective date upon passage and approval.