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Bill

LC 4174

Revise aeronautics laws related to the use of ADS–B information

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill updates aeronautics laws governing access and use of aircraft tracking data (ADS–B information) to align state regulations with modern aviation safety and surveillance standards.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 4174

Legislative bill overview

LC 4174 revises Montana's aeronautics laws to establish or clarify regulatory provisions governing the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS–B) information. ADS–B is aircraft tracking technology that broadcasts real-time location and identification data. The bill is currently in draft form and has not yet been formally introduced to the legislature.

Why is this important

ADS–B data has become critical for modern aviation safety, air traffic management, and regulatory compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates. Montana's aeronautics code may need updates to address how state authorities access, use, and protect this sensitive tracking information, which has privacy and security implications for aircraft operators and the public.

Potential points of contention

  • Data privacy and surveillance concerns: Public availability of real-time aircraft tracking could enable monitoring of private flights, raising questions about privacy protections for operators
  • Regulatory alignment with federal standards: The bill's specific provisions regarding ADS–B use must balance state authority with FAA requirements to avoid conflicts or gaps in enforcement
  • Access and security protocols: Disagreement may arise over who can access ADS–B data (law enforcement, regulatory agencies, the public) and what safeguards should prevent misuse of tracking information

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

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