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Parents' testimony and agency objections leave HB 773 stalled; committee tables the bill
Summary
HB 773, intended to streamline Metropolitan Planning Organization reviews, drew emotional testimony about a child hit in a crosswalk and strong technical opposition from MDT citing federal delegation concerns; Representative Bob Carter apologized for a miscommunication about agency support and the bill was ultimately tabled.
Representative Bob Carter introduced HB 773 (NOAH's Act), saying it would reduce redundant reviews in transportation planning while maintaining federal and state safety standards. The bill attracted emotionally charged testimony from witnesses who described a child's serious crash at a school crosswalk.
Noah Rasmussen, who was struck outside his school about four years ago, and Amber Shaffer, his mother, recounted the injury and slow progress on local improvements. Shaffer described community frustration at "red tape" when the city, county and Department of Transportation could not quickly deliver a flashing sign or other safety features.
Jeremy Keene, Missoula's public works director, supported a due‑pass with clarifying amendments connecting local and MDT processes. However, Chris Dorrington, MDT director, rose in respectful opposition, warning the committee that federal law gives the state DOT an "assumptive role" on National Highway System projects and that the bill, as written, would strip critical authorities the department cannot legally redelegate.
Representative Carter acknowledged a communication error: he told the committee he had believed he had MDT's approval when he did not. "That was my mistake," he said and apologized to the director and to Noah. Committee members discussed potential clarifying amendments but ultimately moved HB 773 from consideration; the measure was tabled in executive action.
What happens next: Committee members and sponsor indicated further work is required. HB 773 was tabled during executive action and would need substantial revision or additional interagency agreement before moving forward.
