Bill > HB672

This bill revises Montana's laws regarding utility relocation during highway projects, granting the Department of Transportation (MDT) expanded rulemaking authority to manage utility facility relocations more effectively. The bill establishes new provisions for how utilities and non-utility facilities must be moved when highway projects are planned, including a requirement that MDT provide preliminary notice to utilities about planned relocations. If utilities do not move their facilities within a reasonable timeframe (at least 90 days after notice), MDT can incrementally reduce its cost reimbursement for relocation, potentially reducing reimbursement to 0%. The bill also gives MDT the authority to remove facilities that are not relocated according to permit requirements, while providing limited liability protection for the department during such removals. MDT is required to consult with various stakeholders, including utility companies, telecommunications providers, and construction contractors, before creating rules related to facility relocations. The bill maintains existing cost-sharing provisions for publicly owned water and sewer facilities, with the department continuing to cover 75-100% of relocation costs depending on the size of the facility. These provisions specifically apply to highway projects using the design-bid-build project delivery method and will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2178