House Bill 571 revises aeronautics laws in Montana concerning the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) systems. The bill prohibits any entity, including government divisions and private companies, from using information obtained from ADS-B systems to calculate, generate, or collect fees from aircraft owners or operators within the state. This restriction specifically applies to aircraft defined as having a gross weight of 9,000 pounds or less and operating under Title 14, part 91 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Additionally, the bill provides definitions for key terms related to the legislation. "Aircraft" is defined in accordance with existing law but is limited to those meeting the specified weight and operational criteria. The term "Automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast" is also defined, highlighting its role in enhancing aviation surveillance through the integration of aircraft positioning, avionics, and ground infrastructure. The provisions of this bill are intended to be codified as part of Title 67, chapter 1, part 1 of Montana law.