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Bill

HB 931

Allow for nonprofit development and management of attainable workforce housing on state lands

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Curtis Schomer

Montana law now allows nonprofits to develop affordable workforce housing on state lands, addressing housing shortages while preserving state property assets.

Chapter Number Assigned
#housing #revenue #state #schoolfinance #schoolsandeducation #statelands
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Bill Summary · HB 931

Legislative bill overview

HB 931 authorizes nonprofits to develop and manage affordable workforce housing on Montana state lands. The bill establishes a framework allowing state property to be used for this purpose, presumably through lease or similar arrangements that keep housing costs accessible to working families.

Why is this important

Montana, like many western states, faces a housing affordability crisis that threatens workforce retention in essential sectors. By enabling nonprofits to develop on state land, the bill creates an alternative development pathway that may produce more affordable units than traditional market development while generating no upfront state expenditure.

Potential points of contention

  • State land use priorities: Some argue state lands should prioritize revenue generation, conservation, or recreation rather than housing development
  • Definition of "workforce" and "attainable": Without clear affordability thresholds and income targeting, the term "attainable housing" may benefit middle-income earners rather than lower-wage workers most in need
  • Long-term state liability: State lands used for housing development create ongoing management obligations and potential liability exposure, even with nonprofit operators

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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