Sen. Denley Loge

Maddy summarySenate Joint Resolution 16 is a resolution from the Montana Legislature urging the federal government to establish safety standards for automated vehicles. It specifically calls on the U.S. Congress and the federal Department of Transportation to adopt laws and rules ensuring these vehicles can operate safely in all weather conditions, including snow and ice, and all road conditions, such as mountain passes and open range areas. The resolution highlights Montana's unique challenges, such as a high rate of animal-related car crashes, as a particular concern for automated driving systems.

Maddy summarySB 111 revises state law to limit the use of green lights on public highways. The bill prohibits vehicles from displaying flashing, rotational, or continuous green lights while on a highway. It specifically authorizes the use of green lights for snow removal equipment operated by the Department of Transportation or other government entities. Additionally, police or authorized emergency vehicles serving as on-scene incident command or control vehicles are also permitted to use green lights. This bill directly affects vehicle operators and government entities by clarifying the legal use of green lights on roadways.

Maddy summarySR 17 is a procedural resolution by the Montana Senate. It confirms the Governor's appointments of five individuals to serve on the Board of Outfitters, with terms ending between June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2028.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 84 (SR 84) is a procedural bill that confirms the Governor's appointment of Christy Clark as the Director of the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The Montana Senate voted to concur with, confirm, and consent to this appointment.

Maddy summarySR 51 is a procedural resolution by the Montana Senate. It confirms the Governor's appointments of Russ Kipp, Jody Loomis, and Kathy McLane to the State Parks and Recreation Board, with terms ending January 2, 2029.

Maddy summarySB 228 revises laws related to public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, affecting EV owners and charging station operators. The bill imposes a 3-cent per kilowatt-hour tax on electricity delivered to public charging stations, with specific effective dates for new and existing stations. It mandates that all public charging stations install a separate electric meter, with the owner responsible for installation costs. Additionally, the bill eliminates a future 30% reduction in state registration fees for electric vehicles. Public charging station operators are also required to register with the state and disclose their charging rates.

Maddy summarySB 288 establishes guidelines for handling law enforcement weapons involved in officer-involved shootings. When such an incident occurs, the officer's weapon must be collected by investigators for forensic examination, including photography and test firing at the state laboratory. Once the investigation is complete, and provided no appeals are pending or criminal charges are filed or contemplated against the officer, the weapon must be returned to the law enforcement agency within 7 days for redeployment.