The bill allows for the platooning of vehicles, which is defined as the operation of partially or fully autonomous motor vehicles that travel in a coordinated manner at closer following distances than typically permitted. It mandates that the Department of Transportation conduct a feasibility study to assess the safety of platooning in Montana, taking into account various factors such as terrain and weather. If deemed safe, the department will establish rules and standards for platooning, engaging with stakeholders from various sectors, including law enforcement and the trucking industry.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for special permits for platooning operations, requiring that each vehicle in a platoon pay gross vehicle weight fees. The fee for these permits is set at $200 for a term permit or $20 for each trip. The bill also amends existing legal language regarding special permits, removing references to trucks and instead using the term "vehicles," while also clarifying the requirements for operators and the conditions under which these permits may be issued.

Statutes affected:
HB0097_2(1): 61-10-124
HB0097_2(2): 61-10-124
HB0097_2(3): 61-10-124
HB0097_2(4): 61-10-124
HB0097_2(5): 61-10-124
HB0097_2: 61-10-124
HB0097_3(19): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(1): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(10): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(11): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(12): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(13): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(14): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(15): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(16): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(17): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(18): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(19): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(2): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(20): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(21): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(22): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(23): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(24): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(25): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(3): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(4): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(5): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(6): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(7): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(8): 61-10-124
HB0097_X(9): 61-10-124
HB0097_X: 61-10-124