MontanaSB 22869th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Revise laws related to public charging stations for electric vehicles

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.

New meters required at charging sites

Starting July 1, 2023, new public charging stations must have their own utility‑approved electric meter, and the owner pays to install it. Starting July 1, 2025, stations installed before July 1, 2023, including legacy sites, must also add a dedicated meter at the owner’s expense. By July 1, 2028, legacy public stations must use accurate devices that measure electricity delivered to the vehicle.

Utilities must collect EV charging tax

Public utilities must bill and collect the charging tax and send the money to the Department of Transportation each quarter. Utilities send 2.75¢ per kWh and may keep 0.25¢ per kWh to cover collection costs. The money goes to the highway restricted account. These taxes are not reviewed by the Public Service Commission. Utilities may create a separate customer class for public charging stations, and bills must show the tax on top of the approved rate.

EV registration fee cut in 2028

Beginning July 1, 2028, the extra EV registration fee for residents drops by 30%. Your yearly savings equal 30% of the extra fee you would otherwise pay.

3¢ per kWh on public charging

The law adds a 3¢ tax per kilowatt-hour on public EV charging. It starts for stations placed in service on or after July 1, 2023. It also applies to public legacy stations beginning July 1, 2025. The tax only applies to electricity measured at the utility meter, not to payment or other extra session fees.

Show prices and register charging stations

Operators must post the price for power at the charging site so customers can see it. Public stations must register with the Montana Department of Transportation within 30 days of opening and provide owner contact details, the station address, and rated kilowatts. The law defines which sites count as public charging stations and which are “public legacy” stations. If a rule does not name a date, it takes effect July 1, 2025.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Denley Loge
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

John Fitzpatrick
Republican • House
Josh Kassmier
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 310 • No: 85

Senate vote • 3/28/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 90 • No: 9

Senate vote • 3/27/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 88 • No: 11

Senate vote • 3/27/2025

AMD-SB0228.002.002 Reavis DO PASS

Yes: 38 • No: 61

Senate vote • 2/25/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 46 • No: 3

Senate vote • 2/24/2025