Bill > HB773

This bill, known as "Noah's Act," aims to streamline transportation planning processes for metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), which are cooperative transportation policymaking organizations in urban areas with populations over 50,000. The bill reduces duplicative reviews by the Montana Transportation Commission and Department of Transportation for transportation projects and plans. Specifically, the bill allows long-range transportation plans adopted by MPOs and previously approved by the department to be recognized as fulfilling state transportation review requirements, eliminating the need for additional commission review. The legislation enables urban street and roadway projects within MPO districts to be approved by department district administrators instead of the commission, provided they align with previously reviewed MPO plans. For nonoperational safety improvements on urban streets and roadways, the bill mandates approval by district administrators rather than the commission. Additionally, in communities without an MPO, district administrators will have the authority to review and approve smaller-scale projects without commission involvement. The bill modifies existing statutes related to project priority setting and contract letting, ensuring more localized decision-making while maintaining compliance with federal and state transportation standards. By reducing redundant administrative processes, the bill aims to enhance efficiency in transportation planning and project implementation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2110