House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise the laws regarding the relocation of utility facilities in Montana. The bill grants the Department of Transportation the authority to establish rules that ensure timely and accurate relocations and installations of both utility and nonutility facilities. Key provisions include the establishment of timelines for relocations and a reduction in reimbursement costs for utilities that fail to relocate in a timely manner. The bill also limits the liability of the Department for removals carried out in compliance with the new regulations.

The bill amends Sections 60-4-402 and 60-4-403 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). Notable changes include the removal of certain subsections regarding reimbursement and the introduction of new rules that define the notice requirements and timelines for utility relocations. Additionally, the Department is required to consult with various stakeholders before implementing new rules. The bill specifies that it will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1(1): 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1(2): 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1(3): 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1(4): 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1(5): 60-4-402, 60-4-403
HB0672_1: 60-4-402, 60-4-403