Big Sky Times

The Montana Legislature is in the final stages of its 2025 session, encountering a mix of contention and cooperation as various bills progress. Recently, the Senate altered the composition of the Committee on Committees, granting the minority leader veto power over conference committee appointments. Though this was a contentious issue, the motion passed with minimal debate.

In legislative advancements, the House Local Government Committee decided to table Senate Bill 418, which aimed to prevent local bans on home-based businesses. The League of Cities argued it was an unnecessary measure, as no such prohibitions exist in Montana. Meanwhile, amendments to House Bill 477, intended to phase out polystyrene containers, were reversed. Originally amended to allow businesses a decade to comply, the amendment was removed. Its supporters aim to defeat the bill on a forthcoming third reading.

Representative Courtney Sprunger's House Bill 226, which allows proof of legal employment via the I-9 form, has been passed, bypassing plans for stricter regulations on small business owners.

Several bills remain active. Senate Bill 345 seeks to reform workers’ compensation laws regarding evidentiary standards. The proposed legislation would simplify access to specialists for injured workers and reduce unnecessary financial scrutiny of physicians. It remains under consideration in the House Business & Labor Committee.

Senate Bill 19, concerning the reinstatement of theft under $1,500 as illegal in Montana, has passed both chambers but returns to the Senate due to the House adding "theft of identity" to the bill. The sponsor supports this amendment, suggesting smooth concurrence.

Senate Bill 528, which limits credit card transaction fees to 3% with required upfront disclosure, also returns to the Senate. A House amendment exempted debt collection fees from this limit, requiring another Senate vote.

Senate Bill 322, which proposes increasing the business equipment tax exemption from $1 million to $3 million, is part of the governor’s tax plan and is set for a House hearing. Various business groups, including the NFIB, are monitoring tax legislation to ensure fair treatment for small businesses.

Throughout the session, several legislative reports have tracked the progress of key bills, including those related to the budget, workers’ compensation, and unemployment insurance, reflecting a busy legislative period marked by significant activity and debate.