This bill, requested by the Department of Public Service Regulation, aims to significantly revise telecommunications regulation in Montana by eliminating the Public Service Commission's rate regulation and the Montana State Universal Fund. It proposes the repeal of several sections of the Montana Code Annotated, including those related to performance assurance plans, rate regulation for small telecommunications providers, and various regulatory processes. The bill also amends existing sections to reflect these changes, such as modifying the definitions and requirements for statutory appropriations and privacy in communications.

Key amendments include the removal of specific provisions that previously governed rate changes and the regulation of telecommunications services, effectively deregulating these areas. The bill introduces new language to clarify the definitions and requirements for statutory appropriations while repealing outdated regulations that are no longer deemed necessary. The proposed changes are set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, signaling a shift towards a more deregulated telecommunications environment in Montana.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17-7-502, 45-8-213, 69-3-302, 69-3-305