_____________ 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 of traffic incidents involving bicycles and motor vehicles.

WHEREAS, 10 bicyclists have been killed on Montana highways since 2017; and

WHEREAS, many Montana residents and visitors choose bicycles as a primary mode of transportation and recreation; and

WHEREAS, bicyclists put themselves at considerable risk of harm when sharing the road with motorists; and

WHEREAS, in order to promote the safety of both bicyclists and motorists, it is necessary for the Legislature to develop a clear understanding of the factors contributing to traffic incidents between bicycles and motor vehicles.

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)        examine data related to the number and nature of traffic incidents that have occurred in the state within the last 5 years involving both bicycles and motor vehicles for which police reports were generated;

(2)        examine the circumstances of incidents involving bicycles and motor vehicles, including but not limited to any contributing factors, causes, or trends; and

(3)        identify areas of law that promote or inhibit the safety of bicyclists traveling on public highways.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the interim committee collaborate with relevant stakeholders to examine this topic, including but not limited to the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that 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.