Senate Joint Resolution 27 urges the United States Congress to take action regarding livestock brucellosis vaccinations. The resolution highlights the impact of brucellosis on cattle and bison, the lack of affordable treatments, and a current shortage of the only U.S.-produced vaccine. It asks Congress to enact legislation that expands vaccine availability, requires assistance to states for rapid outbreak response, and provides funding for preventative vaccination programs.
This joint resolution requests an interim study of statewide emergency medical services (EMS) in Montana. The study aims to ensure equitable and reliable EMS for all residents, workers, and visitors across the state, particularly addressing challenges in rural areas. It directs a legislative committee or staff to assess current EMS capabilities, identify areas with service shortages, and review existing funding mechanisms. The study will also coordinate with counties and the Department of Public Health and Human Services to determine additional resources needed for timely EMS provision over the next five years. The final results, including any recommendations, will be reported to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.
Senate Joint Resolution 33 requests an interim study on Montana's prescription drug supply chain. The study will examine various entities, including pharmacies, manufacturers, and health plans, and their roles in drug affordability and patient access. It aims to identify factors affecting pharmacy sustainability, particularly in rural areas, and explore strategies to reduce patient costs. The study will assess best practices from other states and engage stakeholders, with its findings and policy recommendations to be reported to the 70th Legislature.
Senate Joint Resolution 19 (SJ 19) requests an interim study on ways to improve passenger transportation and public transit services throughout Montana. The study aims to benefit various residents, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, students, and tourists, particularly in areas currently underserved by transportation options. It will investigate potential solutions, such as establishing a passenger transportation commission and reviewing laws to accommodate autonomous vehicles. The Legislative Council is requested to assign a committee or staff to conduct this study, with final results and recommendations due to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.
SB 166 revises the education requirements for certified public accountants (CPAs) in Montana. For initial licensure, applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree with a minimum of 150 semester hours of credit and meet specific accounting and business course credit hour requirements. The bill grants rulemaking authority to the relevant board to define these specific course credit requirements for initial licensure and continuing education for current licensees. These revised requirements are scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2026.
This Senate Joint Resolution (SJ 1) adopts new joint rules for Montana's legislature, primarily establishing procedures for remote participation by lawmakers. It allows members to participate remotely via phone or video (with caucus leader approval) and vote on all matters, including committee actions, while being counted as "present" for quorum and bill passage under Montana's Constitution. Remote participants must use electronic authentication for voting and receive the same compensation as in-person members. The rules directly affect all Montana senators and representatives during legislative sessions. The resolution does not change policy but updates procedural rules for how the legislature operates.
House Bill 477 aimed to phase out the use of expanded polystyrene foam, commonly known as Styrofoam, in food-related businesses. Beginning in 2028, it would have prohibited restaurants and food establishments from serving food or beverages in these containers for on-premises consumption. By 2029, this prohibition would extend to packaging prepared food by restaurants, hotels, and resorts, and by 2030, food packagers would be restricted from using them. Businesses could apply to the Department of Environmental Quality for exemptions if compliance caused undue hardship or if no acceptable alternatives were available, with the department authorized to charge a fee for such applications.
HB 607, known as the "Hearing Aid Coverage Act," proposes to expand health insurance coverage for hearing loss. The bill revises current law that mandates coverage only for children, extending this requirement to include individuals of all ages. It achieves this by amending sections 2-18-704 and 33-22-128 of the Montana Code Annotated, which govern mandatory provisions in insurance contracts. This change would require state insurance plans to cover treatment for hearing loss for both children and adults.
This resolution from the Montana House of Representatives urges the Montana Congressional Delegation to immediately secure federal databases containing Montanans' personally identifiable information. It expresses concern that a new federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has gained access to sensitive data, including names, addresses, and social security numbers, without clear oversight or usage guidelines.
This resolution from the Montana House of Representatives urges the state's Fish and Wildlife Commission to protect the traditional November mule deer hunt. It specifically asks the Commission to retain the current timing of the hunt, including the opportunity to harvest bucks during the rut, and to avoid moving the season earlier into October. The resolution also recommends restricting antlerless mule deer harvest in areas with declining populations. Furthermore, it suggests guidelines for any buck harvest restrictions, such as limiting their scope to a maximum of 20% of districts and incorporating biological triggers like buck-to-doe ratios.
This joint resolution from the Montana Legislature recognizes the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States of America's Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026. It commends organizations like the Sons of the American Revolution and Daughters of the American Revolution for their educational outreach and encourages Montanans to celebrate this historic milestone.
SR 63 is a resolution by the Montana Senate to confirm the Governor's appointment of Kurt Nelson to the Board of Veterans' Affairs for a term ending August 1, 2025. This action officially approves his service on the board.
