The bill proposes the elimination of the Scenic-Historic Byways Advisory Council and amends sections 60-2-601 and 60-2-602 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). The amendments remove references to the advisory council, which was previously responsible for assisting the commission in designing the scenic-historic byways program, reviewing road nominations, and making recommendations for inclusion or deletion of roads in the program. Instead, the bill allows the department, under the direction of the commission, to expend funds appropriated for the scenic-historic byways program without the need for an advisory council.

Additionally, the bill maintains the requirement for the department to adopt rules for administering the scenic-historic byways program, including criteria for road designation. The criteria will now be developed by the commission and department, without input from the advisory council. The bill emphasizes local participation in the program, allowing localities to enhance their tourism experiences, stimulate economic development, and preserve resources while ensuring that private property rights are protected. Overall, the bill streamlines the process by removing the advisory council and empowering the department and commission to manage the program directly.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 60-2-601, 60-2-602