Montana House Bill HB60

Montana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/8/22
• Refer: 12/20/22
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Engrossed: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/26/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Enrolled: 3/24/23
• Passed: 4/19/23

Caption

An act providing for an annual fee on electric vehicles registered in the state

Impact

The enactment of HB 60 will require electric vehicle owners in Montana to pay annual registration fees that vary based on their vehicle's weight classification. These fees are aimed at ensuring continued funding for transportation projects, as electric vehicles do not contribute to fuel taxes traditionally used for road maintenance and construction. This move is seen as a necessary step to balance the funding mechanisms affecting roadways as the number of electric vehicles rises. The fees will be directly deposited into the highway restricted account, which is dedicated to state transportation needs.

Summary

House Bill 60 introduces an annual fee specifically for electric vehicles registered in the state of Montana. The bill establishes different registration fees based on weight classifications of electric vehicles, differentiating between standard electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. This legislation is expected to enhance the state's transportation funding while addressing the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles on the road. By implementing these fees, the state intends to maintain and improve roadway infrastructure without compromising the financial contributions made by traditional fuel tax revenues.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 60 appears mixed but leans toward the supportive side, particularly amongst legislators focused on sustainable transportation and infrastructure funding. Proponents argue that such measures are essential as electric vehicles become more common and that it is only fair for these drivers to contribute to the upkeep of the roads they utilize. Critics, however, may view the additional fees as a burden on electric vehicle owners, potentially discouraging the adoption of cleaner transportation options in the state.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB 60 is the fairness of creating fees based on vehicle classifications that could disproportionately impact those with lower-income electric vehicles. While the intent is to foster equity in transportation funding, concerns have been raised over whether the structured fees might create barriers for individuals looking to shift to electric alternatives. Further discussions might also focus on adjusting those fees in response to evolving vehicle technology and environmental policy goals.