Montana PSC Thanks Lawmakers for Advancing Key Utility Legislation During 69th Legislative Session
As the 69th session of the Montana Legislature concludes, the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) thanked lawmakers who championed key legislation that strengthened the Commission’s ability to regulate utility services across the state. These legislative successes aid the PSC in its mission of ensuring Montanans have continued access to affordable, reliable, and safe utility services.
“The partnership between the Legislature and the Public Service Commission is vital to Montana’s utility landscape,” said PSC Executive Director, Alana Lake. “We deeply appreciate the lawmakers who recognized the importance of sound utility regulation and worked with us to pass legislation that enhances transparency, efficiency, and fairness in the oversight of essential services.”
During the session, lawmakers passed several bills that bolster the PSC’s ability to serve both consumers and utility providers. These include:
- Senate Bill 22 – Adjusts deadlines to reflect the needs of parties when a new garbage hauler requests authority to operate in Montana;
- Senate Bill 23 – Matches Montana’s railroad reporting requirements with those of the Federal Railroad Administration;
- Senate Bill 51 – Removes antiquated reporting requirements in Montana telecommunications registrations; and
- House Bill 45 – Removes unnecessary and outdated portions of the Montana telecommunications statute to better reflect the modern nature of the telecommunications industry.
These bills, which were requested by the PSC, removed outdated or redundant regulatory requirements, allowing the PSC to allocate resources more effectively and efficiently.
“These new laws represent a thoughtful, proactive approach to utility oversight,” said Commission President Brad Molnar. “They help position Montana to meet the challenges of the future while protecting the interests of ratepayers today.”
As the new laws go into effect, the PSC will begin the process of implementing relevant regulatory changes and engaging with stakeholders to ensure smooth transitions.
The Commission regulates private investor-owned natural gas, electric, telephone, water, and sewer companies, certain motor carriers, and oversees natural gas pipeline safety and intrastate railroad safety. The Commission works to ensure that Montanans receive safe and reliable service from regulated public utilities while paying reasonable rates. For more information, visit psc.mt.gov or contact the Commission at 1-800-646-6150. Follow the Commission at x.com/MT_PSC or visit facebook.com/MontanaPSC.Tags:
