House Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes amendments to the classification and motor carrier certificate laws in Montana, specifically revising Section 69-12-321 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). The bill outlines the process for hearings on applications for motor carrier certificates, detailing the notification requirements for interested parties and the conditions under which a hearing is required. Notably, the bill removes the provision that allowed Class D motor carriers to apply for a certificate of public convenience and necessity without a public hearing if certain conditions were met. Instead, it clarifies that such applications may be denied without a hearing only if the commission has previously determined that public convenience and necessity do not require the proposed service.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that establishes an immediate effective date upon passage and approval. This change aims to streamline the regulatory process for motor carriers and ensure that applications are handled in a timely manner, while also maintaining the opportunity for public input through hearings when necessary. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the motor carrier certification process in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-12-321
HB0518_1(1): 69-12-321
HB0518_1(2): 69-12-321
HB0518_1(3): 69-12-321
HB0518_1: 69-12-321