House Bill No. introduced by J. Fitzpatrick establishes the Montana Data Center Development Act, which aims to enhance the state's position as a leader in data center development by clarifying the role of the Public Service Commission (PSC) in serving large electric customers. The bill prohibits the PSC from preventing regulated public utilities from providing service to new large customers, specifically those with an average monthly demand of 5,000 kilowatts or more. It also emphasizes the importance of a stable regulatory environment to attract investment and facilitate long-term planning for energy resources in Montana.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $25,000 from the general fund to the Department of Commerce for marketing Montana as a data center location and another $25,000 to the State Energy Office to assist data center developers in acquiring electrical generation resources. The bill amends existing law to clarify customer service options and requirements, particularly for large customers, while ensuring that the PSC can still establish tariffs and regulatory processes. The act is set to take effect upon passage, with specific provisions related to appropriations becoming effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-8-201
HB0877_1(1): 69-8-201
HB0877_1(2): 69-8-201
HB0877_1(3): 69-8-201
HB0877_1(4): 69-8-201
HB0877_1: 69-8-201