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Bill

HB 708

Allow all persons serving in the reserves to be eligible for certain CDL waiver

2025 Regular Session Introduced by George Nikolakakos

Montana law now allows all military reserve members to qualify for CDL waivers, expanding existing exemptions that previously applied only to active-duty service members.

Chapter Number Assigned
#militaryaffairs #motorvehicles
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Bill Summary · HB 708

Legislative bill overview

HB 708 expands Commercial Driver's License (CDL) waiver eligibility to include all persons serving in military reserves, not just active-duty personnel. This allows reserve members to operate commercial vehicles without obtaining a full CDL under certain circumstances, similar to existing exemptions for active-duty service members.

Why is this important

Reserve service members often have limited time windows between duty assignments and civilian employment, making CDL acquisition burdensome. This change facilitates smoother transitions between military and civilian roles while recognizing that reserve members receive comparable training in vehicle operation. It may also address workforce shortages in commercial transportation by reducing licensing barriers for returning veterans and reserve members.

Potential points of contention

  • Training parity concerns: Critics may argue that reserve members receive less frequent or intensive CDL-equivalent training than active-duty personnel, potentially creating safety risks if waiver holders lack current competency
  • Insurance and liability questions: Commercial carriers and insurers may resist the change due to uncertainty about liability coverage for waived drivers and potential gaps in regulatory oversight
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language "all persons serving in reserves" may be unclear regarding duration of service, type of reserves (military branches), or timing of when the waiver applies relative to service periods

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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