The Montana Senate Floor Session on March 1, 2025, focused on several key legislative proposals, including the elimination of an advisory council, revisions to disability parking laws, and the introduction of distracted driving legislation.

The session began with a discussion on Senate Bill 309, which proposes to eliminate the Scenic History Byways Advisory Council. Established in 1999, the council has not received any applications for new scenic byway designations since 2010, with the only current designated byway being State Route 37. Proponents of the bill argued that the council is no longer necessary, while opponents highlighted the council's potential role in addressing current issues related to scenic byways. Ultimately, the bill passed with a vote of 36 to 14.

Next, the Senate considered House Bill 38, which aims to revise laws related to disability parking. The bill increases fines for violations and establishes penalties for providing false information regarding disability parking accommodations. Supporters emphasized the importance of accessible parking for individuals with disabilities, while some senators raised concerns about the enforcement of the new regulations. The bill passed with a vote of 41 to 9.

The session then moved to Senate Bill 329, which mandates the use of E-Verify for new employees to prevent the hiring of illegal labor. The bill includes an amendment exempting businesses with fewer than 50 employees to alleviate potential burdens on small businesses. Senators debated the implications of the bill on immigration and labor practices, with some expressing concerns about its impact on small employers. The bill ultimately passed with a vote of 37 to 13.

Senate Bill 359, also known as "Chloe's Law," was introduced to address distracted driving by prohibiting the use of handheld devices while operating a vehicle. The bill aims to enhance road safety, particularly for young drivers, and has garnered support from various stakeholders, including law enforcement and the Montana Department of Transportation. However, some senators raised concerns about the effectiveness of such legislation and its potential to infringe on local control. The bill passed with a vote of 33 to 17.

Finally, Senate Bill 392 was introduced to memorialize Laverne Parish, a combat medic who sacrificed his life during service. The bill proposes to name a portion of the highway near Ronan in his honor, with several senators expressing support for recognizing the contributions of veterans and educating the public about their sacrifices. The bill is expected to foster greater appreciation for military history among younger generations.

Overall, the session highlighted a range of legislative priorities, from public safety and accessibility to honoring historical figures, reflecting the diverse concerns of Montana's lawmakers.