Montana 2023 Regular Session

Montana Senate Bill SB536

Introduced

3/23/23

Refer

3/24/23

Engrossed

4/4/23

Refer

4/5/23

Refer

4/26/23

Enrolled

5/2/23

Passed

5/19/23

Caption

Provide funding for local government road maintenance

Impact

The approval and implementation of SB536 will have a considerable impact on state laws regarding infrastructure funding and local government operations. It provides a mechanism for financial relief and resource allocation aimed at enhancing the safety and functionality of local transportation systems. This new funding approach seeks to ensure local roads and bridges are adequately maintained and can meet the demands of residents and local businesses. Additionally, it introduces statutory appropriations that allow for more streamlined funding without the necessity of biennial legislative approval, thereby facilitating quicker project initiation.

Summary

Senate Bill 536 aims to provide substantial funding to local governments in Montana for the maintenance and reconstruction of city roads and bridges. By establishing a local road and bridge account, the bill allocates $20 million for these efforts, along with an additional $100 million transfer from the general fund. The intent is to support cities and towns with populations under 10,000, thereby addressing the pressing infrastructure needs in smaller communities across the state. The funding is designated specifically for construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and repair of city streets and alleys, ensuring that local road projects can proceed efficiently.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB536 appears to be positive, particularly among local government officials and constituents who rely on effective infrastructure. Proponents of the bill argue that it will significantly benefit smaller municipalities that often struggle to fund necessary road repairs and maintenance. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the management and equitable distribution of the funds. Opponents in these discussions have urged caution, emphasizing the need for transparency in how funds are allocated and spent, ensuring that all communities involved truly receive the support needed.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB536 include the fairness of fund distribution among smaller communities. As the bill dictates that funds be allocated based on a combination of street mileage and population, there are concerns about whether this model effectively addresses the unique infrastructure challenges faced by each locality. Additionally, the stipulation that funds cannot be used for the purchase of capital equipment has also drawn scrutiny, with critics suggesting that certain localities may need to invest in equipment to carry out necessary roadwork. This could potentially limit the effectiveness of the bill in meeting comprehensive local needs.

Latest MT SB536 Activity

View All Events: MT 2023 Regular Session SB536

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT SB0535

Local road funding distributions.

MT HB784

Revise distribution of revenue for local government roads

MT HB2559

Providing a local government option for the funding of essential affordable housing programs.

MT HB1044

Local Funding for Vulnerable Road User Protection

MT HB1537

Expanding access to funding from the multiuse roadway safety account for eligible cities and for the Washington state departments of natural resources and fish and wildlife for maintenance and guidance of motorized recreation on green dot roads.

MT HB1461

Road funding.

MT HB1085

Road funding.

MT SB5576

Revised for 1st substitute: Providing a local government option for the funding of essential affordable housing programs.

MT SB281

Jefferson County, provide funding for maintenance and operation of City Walk Birmingham

MT H159

Orphan Roads Maintenance Program Grant

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

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MD HB0390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.