Bill > HJ8

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to study electric vehicle (EV) taxation and registration fees in Montana, with the goal of assessing their fairness and effectiveness. The resolution highlights that motor fuel tax revenues have not kept pace with road infrastructure spending, and while EVs currently represent only 0.5% of Montana vehicle registrations, the state has implemented additional registration fees and charging station taxes. The committee will be tasked with comparing registration fees and taxation methods for EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles, reviewing other states' EV tax structures, and designing a more equitable taxation system for high-efficiency vehicles. The study will involve a subcommittee that includes various stakeholders, and all aspects of the study must be completed by September 15, 2026, with final results to be reported to the 70th Legislature. The underlying motivation is to create a more fair and sustainable approach to road funding that does not disproportionately burden EV owners while still ensuring all vehicle owners contribute appropriately to infrastructure maintenance.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0645