_____________ joint resolution NO. _____________

INTRODUCED BY _________________________________________________

By Request of the ****

A joint resolution of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the state of montana requesting an interim study on eligibility criteria for memorial highways.

WHEREAS, the Legislature has more than 30 Montana roadways that have been designated as memorial highways; and

WHEREAS, the number of memorial highways in this state has significantly increased over the last 5 years, with 10 new memorial highways added in 2019 alone; and

WHEREAS, current Montana law does not specify criteria for designating memorial highways; and

WHEREAS, it would be beneficial for the Legislature to establish clear and consistent guidelines for designating memorial highways, including who is eligible to be honored and remembered in this way.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:

That the Legislative Council be requested to designate an appropriate interim committee or statutory committee, pursuant to section 5-5-217, MCA, to:

(1)        review the most recent map of memorial highways and other special designations in the state;

(2)        examine appropriate guidelines and qualifications for designating memorial highways, including but not limited to eligibility criteria regarding who may be honored; and

(3)        propose legislation to clarify the study's findings, if appropriate.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study is assigned to staff, any findings or conclusions be presented to and reviewed by an appropriate committee designated by the Legislative Council.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all aspects of the study, including presentation and review requirements, be concluded prior to September 15, 2024.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the final results of the study, including any findings, conclusions, comments, or recommendations of the appropriate committee, be reported to the 69th Legislature.