Big Sky Times

The Montana Legislature has reached the midpoint of its 2025 session, with March 7 marking the deadline for all General Bills to pass through their originating chamber. Bills that do not meet this deadline are considered inactive for the remainder of the session, although those involving financial matters have a few additional weeks to progress.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is closely monitoring several bills. Among them is HB 143, which revises the definition of treating physician to include physician assistants. Sponsored by Rep. Jodee Etchart, it passed unanimously in the House and will be reviewed by the Senate Public Health Committee on March 19. "Physician assistants (PAs) are often less expensive and quicker to get in to see," NFIB stated in support.

HB 197 aims to streamline workers' compensation laws concerning employees returning to work without restrictions. Sponsored by Rep. Anthony Nicastro, it passed through both chambers and will soon be debated on the Senate floor.

Another bill under consideration is HB 367, sponsored by Rep. Ed Buttrey, which clarifies workers' compensation coverage regarding employee travel reimbursement. It too received unanimous approval from the House and will be discussed by the Senate Business & Labor Committee on March 18.

In unemployment insurance reforms, HB 210 proposes a new tier with lower fees intended to benefit small businesses. Sponsored by Rep. Steve Fitzpatrick, it passed in the House unanimously and is scheduled for review in a Senate committee.

On general employment issues, HB 226 provides guidelines for legal employment reviews using I-9 or E-Verify systems but awaits assignment to a Senate committee after passing in the House.

A significant proposal under tort reform is HB 302, which requires more evidence for punitive damage claims. Sponsored by Rep. Anthony Nicastro, it has cleared the House and awaits a hearing in Senate Judiciary on March 18.

Regarding taxes, SB 322 seeks an increase in business equipment tax exemptions from $1 million to $3 million and is scheduled for its first hearing on March 19.

Additionally monitored legislation includes SB 418 concerning home-based businesses and SB 528 related to credit card transaction fees.

Some measures did not advance past committee stages or were tabled despite NFIB's opposition or support. These include proposals like HB 160 on auxiliary container regulations and HB 131 on unemployment insurance benefits duration.

Gov. Greg Gianforte has signed into law HB 40, repealing the Small Business Compliance Assistance Council following its passage through both legislative chambers.