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HB 269

Eliminate the organic commodity advisory council

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Tilleman

Montana eliminates its organic commodity advisory council, removing a formal stakeholder advisory body for the state's organic agriculture sector.

Chapter Number Assigned
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Bill Summary · HB 269

Legislative bill overview

HB 269 eliminates Montana's organic commodity advisory council, a body that provided guidance on organic agriculture policy and market development. The bill removes the statutory requirement for this council to exist and operate, effectively dissolving the advisory structure for organic farming stakeholders.

Why is this important

The organic advisory council served as a formal channel for organic farmers, producers, and industry representatives to influence state agricultural policy and receive market information. Its elimination removes an organized voice for this growing agricultural sector in state policymaking, potentially affecting organic industry coordination and representation.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry representation loss: Organic producers lose a dedicated advisory structure to communicate concerns and recommendations to state government, though they may still engage through other agricultural channels
  • Cost versus utility debate: Supporters may argue the council was unnecessary overhead; critics contend it provided cost-effective industry coordination that state agencies now lose
  • Market development impact: Unclear whether organic market development, certification support, or industry networking functions previously handled by the council will be absorbed elsewhere or discontinued

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

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