The bill is a joint resolution from the Senate and House of Representatives of Montana, requesting an interim study on the feasibility of citizen-owned electric generation cooperatives. It highlights the changing landscape of Montana's electricity sector and the need for reliable electricity sources for residents. The resolution calls for the Legislative Council to designate an appropriate interim or statutory committee to examine various aspects of citizen-owned cooperatives, including their legality, board composition, participant eligibility, financial impacts on ratepayers, funding options for necessary infrastructure, and the management processes involved.
Additionally, the resolution stipulates that if the study is conducted by staff, the findings must be presented to a designated committee for review. All study activities, including presentations and reviews, are required to be completed by September 15, 2024, with the final results, including any findings and recommendations, to be reported to the 69th Legislature.