The bill amends Section 61-8-310 of the Montana Code Annotated to clarify the authority of local authorities and county commissions in setting speed limits. It allows local authorities to establish reasonable and safe speed limits based on engineering and traffic investigations, with specific provisions for urban districts, school zones, and senior citizen centers. Notably, the bill removes the requirement for an engineering and traffic investigation for county commissioners when setting speed limits on county roads, particularly for limits outside urban districts and in school zones.

Additionally, the bill specifies that local authorities must consult with the Department of Transportation and the commission when altering school zone areas that include state highways. It also mandates that speed limits set on unpaved roads must be uniform for all types of motor vehicles. Violations of the established speed limits are classified as misdemeanor offenses, with penalties outlined in existing law. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety and provide clearer guidelines for speed limit regulations in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 61-8-310
SB0428_1(1): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(2): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(3): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(4): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(5): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(6): 61-8-310
SB0428_1(7): 61-8-310
SB0428_1: 61-8-310
SB0428_X(1): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(10): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(11): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(12): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(2): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(3): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(4): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(5): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(6): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(7): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(8): 61-8-310
SB0428_X(9): 61-8-310
SB0428_X: 61-8-310