This bill aims to revise existing laws concerning broadband deployment, particularly focusing on state highways and interstate rights-of-way. It introduces provisions that allow applicants to seek exceptions to the requirement of paying fair market value for the use of these rights-of-way, subject to approval. Additionally, the bill defines "fair market value" and includes revisions to existing definitions related to broadband deployment.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a fee associated with the application process and amends specific sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), namely sections 60-4-501 and 60-4-601. The legislation is designed to facilitate broadband expansion while ensuring that the financial implications for applicants are clearly defined and manageable. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
SB0521_1.pdf: 60-4-501, 60-4-601
SB0521_2.pdf: 60-4-501, 60-4-601
Amended: 60-4-501, 60-4-601
Introduced: 60-4-501, 60-4-601