House Joint Resolution No. 2025HJ0008.2 proposes an interim study to evaluate the current system of electric vehicle fees and taxation in Montana. The resolution highlights the historical reliance on motor fuel taxes for funding public road infrastructure, which have not kept pace with road spending due to various factors, including inflation and improvements in fuel economy. It notes that electric vehicles, which constituted about 0.5% of Montana's vehicle registrations in 2022, contribute minimally to road funding, yet the state imposes additional registration fees and taxes on electric vehicle owners that exceed those for traditional internal combustion engine vehicles by an average of $152.46 annually. The resolution argues that current policies may unfairly penalize electric vehicle owners compared to owners of high-efficiency gas-powered vehicles.

The resolution requests the Legislative Council to appoint an interim committee to assess the fairness of electric vehicle registration fees and taxation methods compared to those for internal combustion engine vehicles. The committee will also review tax and fee structures from other states and their effectiveness. Notably, the bill deletes the previous requirement for the committee to design a new equitable taxation system for high-efficiency light vehicles, focusing instead on comparative analysis and recommendations for improvement. The study's findings and recommendations are to be reported to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.