HB 64 repeals Montana's Small Business Compliance Assistance Advisory Council and removes its references from air quality regulations. The bill amends the duties of a small business stationary source representative, eliminating requirements for them to consult with the now-repealed council. This directly affects Montana small businesses subject to air quality regulations, as the council previously provided input on compliance challenges. The change streamlines the representative's role by removing council-related obligations while keeping their core responsibilities for assisting small businesses with regulatory compliance.
HB 203 designates February 9 as "Montana Mining Day" to honor the state's mining heritage, specifically commemorating when Montana's territorial government adopted its motto "oro y plata" (gold and silver) in 1865. This ceremonial bill directly affects all Montanans by establishing an annual day to recognize the historical and ongoing role of mining in the state's economy, culture, and identity. The key provision is the official designation of February 9 as a day for public education and celebration of Montana's mining legacy, including its contributions to jobs, tax revenue, and mineral resources. The bill does not create new regulations or funding but serves as a symbolic recognition of the industry's significance.
HB 17 revises the appointment terms and expiration dates for members of Montana's Forest Lands Taxation Advisory Committee. It specifies that legislative leaders must appoint committee members by July 1 of a regular session, with initial terms set to two years (instead of four), and requires replacement if an appointed legislator leaves their chamber early. The governor must appoint members annually, with initial terms ranging from one to four years (one for 1 year, one for 2 years, one for 3 years, and two for 4 years). The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment and does not change the committee's responsibilities or the forest land valuation system it advises on.
HB 19 requires local governments (like cities or counties) to hold a public hearing before using tax revenue from a tax increment financing district to pay for bonds that would extend the district's life beyond 15 years. This applies when a local government wants to pledge future tax revenue to fund bonds for urban renewal or economic development projects. The bill mandates that the local government must notify the county and school district where the project is located and hold the hearing to determine if extending the district is necessary to fulfill its development plan. The law takes effect for bond pledges made after its enactment date.
HB 32 amends Montana law to clarify that government entities (like schools) may record children at public events without parental consent. It specifically adds "an event open to the public" (such as school sports, performances, or rehearsals) to the list of circumstances where recording is permitted. This directly affects parents of children participating in such public school activities, as it removes the prior requirement for parental consent for these recordings. The bill focuses on defining when government recordings of children are allowed, not on general public recording rights. The law was signed by the Governor on February 27, 2025.
SB 61 updates Montana's water policy to require accurate, real-time streamflow measurement for determining water availability. It affects water rights holders and state water managers by ensuring new water uses can only be approved when legally and physically available, protecting existing rights. The bill integrates these measurement standards into Montana's existing water law framework under Title 85. This policy change aims to improve the accuracy of water distribution decisions.
SB 54 requires taxpayers to pay state taxes electronically when the amount due is $50,000 or more, lowering the previous threshold from $500,000. This affects businesses and individuals owing significant state taxes, such as corporations or large property owners. The bill gives Montana’s Department of Revenue authority to create rules for electronic payment methods, coordinating tax filings, and handling payment errors. It takes effect for payments made after December 31, 2025, with alternative payment options available if electronic systems are unavailable.
SB 76 revises Montana's water rights permitting process by setting clear deadlines for draft preliminary determinations. It requires the Department of Natural Resources to issue a draft within 60 days (if a preapplication meeting occurred) or 120 days (otherwise), with applicants allowed a 180-day extension to submit additional information. The bill mandates a 30-day public comment period for draft decisions, requiring the department to publish notices in local newspapers and on its website, and to notify affected water rights holders directly. This directly affects water rights applicants (like farmers or developers) and existing water users whose rights could be impacted by new permits or changes. The key change is standardizing timelines and public input to reduce delays in water rights decisions.
HB 1 is a funding bill that allocates state general fund money to cover the operational costs of Montana's 69th Legislature (2025-2026) and prepares for the 70th Legislature in 2027. It provides $5.65 million for the Senate, $9.45 million for the House, and $2.38 million for legislative support staff for the current session, plus smaller amounts for next session planning. The bill directly affects the legislature itself by ensuring funding for staff, offices, and operations during the 2025-2027 term. It has no policy changes beyond budget allocations and takes effect immediately upon passage.
SB 59 designates the bridge over the Kootenai River on Highway 37 in Libby, Montana, as the "Staff Sergeant Arthur J Rambo Memorial Bridge" to honor his military service and sacrifice. The bill requires the Montana Department of Transportation to install signs at both ends of the bridge and a memorial plaque near the structure. This is a commemorative measure with no policy changes or direct impact on residents or government operations. The bill was signed into law on January 16, 2025, and focuses solely on honoring Staff Sergeant Rambo's legacy.
Chapter Number Assigned
(S) Signed by Governor
