Senate Bill No. introduced by D. Zolnikov, at the request of the Public Service Commission, aims to increase penalties for blocked railroad crossings by amending Section 69-14-626 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). The bill makes it unlawful for any corporation, association, or company to willfully obstruct public highways that cross railroad tracks outside of incorporated cities and towns. The amendment specifies that it is illegal to stop any railroad train, car, engine, or locomotive for more than a certain number of minutes or to leave any object on the tracks at these crossings.

The bill also significantly raises the penalties for violations. Offenders will now face a misdemeanor charge with fines ranging from $750 to $1,500, up from the previous minimum of $25 and maximum of $100. Additionally, the language clarifies that the law does not repeal existing regulations against encroachments or obstructions of public highways. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-14-626
SB0024_1(1): 69-14-626
SB0024_1(2): 69-14-626
SB0024_1(3): 69-14-626
SB0024_1(4): 69-14-626
SB0024_1(5): 69-14-626
SB0024_1: 69-14-626