House Joint Resolution No. 70.1, introduced by D. Baum, requests an interim study to assess the impacts of recent and potential changes to federal funding on the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). The resolution highlights that MDT's budget is significantly reliant on federal funding, with 65.3% coming from federal sources, and that many of its programs, including General Operations and Highways and Engineering, depend on this funding to remain operational. The study aims to evaluate how changes in federal funding could necessitate actions from Montana's Executive and Legislative branches, including budget adjustments and potential job losses for state employees funded by federal dollars.

The resolution tasks the Legislative Finance Committee with reviewing federal directives affecting MDT since January 20, 2025, and analyzing their implications for Montana citizens and government programs. Specific areas of focus include the impact on agency operations, potential personnel reductions, and the sustainability of federally funded programs, particularly those related to infrastructure. The committee is required to present its findings to relevant interim committees and complete the study by September 15, 2026, with a final report to be delivered to the 70th Legislature.