Bill > HJ8

This bill is a legislative study resolution aimed at examining the current taxation and fee structures for electric vehicles (EVs) in Montana. Recognizing that motor fuel taxes have historically funded road infrastructure but are now insufficient due to factors like improved fuel efficiency, the bill requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to investigate EV-related fees and taxation. The committee will be tasked with comparing the fairness of registration fees and taxation methods for high-efficiency electric and internal combustion vehicles, reviewing other states' approaches, and designing an equitable taxation system that addresses road funding gaps. The bill mandates the creation of a diverse subcommittee including representatives from the Department of Transportation, an economist, EV and internal combustion vehicle owners, and a consumer advocate. The study must be completed by September 15, 2026, with findings and recommendations to be reported to the 70th Legislature. The underlying motivation is to address concerns that current EV fees disproportionately burden electric vehicle owners, with the annual charges currently exceeding those for traditional vehicle owners by $152.46, while not effectively solving the broader road funding deficit.

Transportation and Infrastructure

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