The bill amends existing electric utility laws in Montana to introduce a competitive bidding process for the construction of new electric transmission line projects. It revises definitions related to electric transmission lines, including the addition of "substation" and "associated equipment" to the definition of an electric transmission line. The definition of "incumbent electric utility" is also updated to exclude public utilities regulated by the public service commission, thereby clarifying the entities that fall under this category.

Additionally, the bill removes the "right of first refusal" for incumbent electric utilities and establishes that they must conduct a competitive bidding process for any new electric transmission line project valued at $8 million or more. The incumbent utility can participate in the bidding process and is responsible for ensuring that the project adheres to its established timelines and standards. Upon completion, the incumbent utility retains ownership and maintenance responsibilities for the transmission line. The bill aims to enhance competition and efficiency in the construction of electric transmission infrastructure in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(1): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(2): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(3): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(4): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(5): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1(6): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_1: 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(1): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(10): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(11): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(12): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(13): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(2): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(3): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(4): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(5): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(6): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(7): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(8): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X(9): 69-5-201, 69-5-202
SB0355_X: 69-5-201, 69-5-202