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Lawmakers consider transparency changes to PSC denial process in HB 518
Summary
House Bill 518 would narrow exceptions allowing the Public Service Commission to deny Class D motor carrier applications without a public hearing and would require clearer public explanations when denials occur; PSC offered conditional support but emphasized existing public documentation may already cover some denials.
Representative Brad Barker described House Bill 518 as a transparency measure aimed at giving applicants and the public clearer opportunities for hearings and explanation when the Public Service Commission denies Class D applications. Barker said the bill would ensure "the right to know" why an application was denied and allow applicants meeting statutory requirements to request a public hearing.
EJ Redding (Montana Solid Waste Contractors Association) again cautioned that an overly broad title could be misused in later amendment stages. Trevor Graff of the PSC appeared as an informational witness and explained that current law allows a written denial without hearing when the record shows a prior public investigation and finding for the territory; Graff emphasized that a hearing must still be held if the applicant demonstrates material changes in conditions.
Committee members asked Graff for data about how many Class D applications the PSC processes and the commission's workload; Graff agreed to provide numbers and a package of context for the committee. Representative Barker said he would work with the PSC and committee members to consider amendments and seek greater transparency while not imposing unnecessary hearings.
Where it stands: the committee heard the bill and asked the PSC for supplemental information about the number and cost of Class D proceedings. No formal vote occurred on HB 518 at this meeting.
