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Senate panel advances $50 million seed for bridge grants, increases luxury-vehicle registration fee
Summary
The committee gave SB 324 a due pass to create a $50 million seed for a Better Bridge Fund and to increase the luxury vehicle registration fee (amended in transportation committee); proponents said it provides needed local bridge support and public-safety funding, opponents warned of industry effects and tariff risks.
Senator Josh Kasmier introduced SB 324 as legislation to provide $50 million in seed funding for a Better Bridge Fund, fund the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) salary needs, and provide ongoing support for the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and victim-service programs. The measure targets "off-system" local bridges that are not eligible for federal on-system funding.
Ryan Evans of the governor's budget office said the bill, as introduced, provides $50 million of seed money and would support a $10 million per-year grant program to local governments. Evans urged the committee to…
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