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HB 250

Generally revise education laws related to out-of-district attendance.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Bedey

Montana law now permits expanded out-of-district school attendance, potentially affecting student access, district funding, and enrollment patterns across the state.

Chapter Number Assigned
#taxation--property #education-k-12 #education-schoolfinance
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Bill Summary · HB 250

Legislative bill overview

HB 250 revises Montana's education laws governing out-of-district attendance, allowing students to attend schools outside their residential district under specified conditions. The bill has completed the legislative process and was signed into law by the Governor in May 2025. Specific provisions are not detailed in the available action summary, but the measure addresses student enrollment flexibility across district boundaries.

Why is this important

Out-of-district attendance policies directly affect school funding (which often follows students), district demographics, and educational access for families with limited school options in their home district. These changes can influence student outcomes, property values, and the financial stability of rural or under-resourced districts that may lose enrollment and associated per-pupil funding.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Unclear whether per-pupil funding follows out-of-district students or remains with home districts, affecting financial equity between districts
  • Transportation and access: Out-of-district attendance may increase transportation burdens or barriers for lower-income families unable to arrange travel
  • District capacity and equity: Rural or smaller districts may lose enrollment to larger, better-resourced districts, while popular districts could become overcrowded if attendance is unrestricted

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

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