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 lead vehicle's operator must possess a commercial driver's license, and those who may take control of platooned vehicles must also have the same qualification. The Department of Transportation is tasked with conducting a feasibility study to assess the safety of platooning in Montana, considering various factors such as terrain and weather. If deemed safe, the department will establish rules and standards for platooning operations.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for special permits related to platooning operations, including a fee structure for these permits. It amends existing regulations regarding special permits for vehicle combinations, ensuring that gross vehicle weight fees are applicable to each truck in a platoon. The department is granted authority to enforce necessary restrictions and conditions for these operations, further enhancing the regulatory framework surrounding vehicle platooning in the state.

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