Bill > HB160

This bill repeals Montana's existing laws that prohibited local governments from regulating auxiliary containers (such as plastic bags or food packaging), effectively allowing local municipalities to create their own regulations regarding these items. Specifically, the bill amends two existing sections of Montana law (7-1-111 and 7-5-131) by removing language that previously restricted local governments' powers to regulate auxiliary containers. Additionally, the bill completely repeals section 7-1-121, which previously established statewide uniformity for auxiliary container regulations. By removing these restrictions, the legislation gives local government units the authority to create their own ordinances and regulations concerning auxiliary containers, such as implementing fees, bans, or other restrictions. This change means that cities, counties, and other local government entities in Montana will now have more flexibility to address environmental concerns or waste management issues related to disposable containers at their discretion, without being constrained by state-level prohibitions on local regulation.

Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1972