MT HB55

Public utilities must hold at least four public meetings (increased from two) before submitting integrated least-cost resource plans, and the commission must review plans within 120 days of receiving a complete filing

The Public Service Commission must select and maintain a list of independent evaluators to oversee competitive solicitations for electricity supply resources, with rules to be adopted by July 1, 2026

Independent evaluators must monitor bid evaluations, ensure fair and transparent processes, notify parties of discrepancies, and prepare closing reports that become part of future cost-recovery proceedings

Resource planning advisory committee meetings must be open to the public unless a majority votes to close them, and utilities must publish committee membership

$200,000 is appropriated from the general fund to the Public Service Commission for the 2025-2027 biennium to implement the act, effective July 1, 2025