AFP-Montana Statement on Right of First Refusal Legislation
HELENA, MT—Today, Montana Governor Richard Gianforte signed Senate Bill 355 into law. This legislation repeals the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) for investor-owned utilities regulated by the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC).
ROFR laws give electric utilities operating within a state an automatic first right to build new transmission lines within that state without the necessity of putting the project out for bid, artificially restricting competition. Repealing this ROFR law opens the market to new entrants, allowing for fair and competitive bidding, attracting new investment, creating high-paying jobs, and bolstering local businesses supporting energy infrastructure projects.
This is yet further proof that Montana is committed to energy independence and reinforces the state’s position as a national leader in energy policy.
AFP-Montana State Director Jesse Ramos issued the following statement:
“It took just eight years for Montana to be done with their ROFR law. This is a massive win for Montana families and the business community in the state.
“Americans for Prosperity-Montana worked tirelessly to see this legislation passed so that current and future generations of Montanans can live their American Dream in Big Sky Country. We appreciate Governor Gianforte’s leadership on this issue – let’s unleash American energy starting in Montana.”
