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HB 861

Provide statewide access to a K-12 digital toolkit

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Tilleman

Montana bill to provide standardized K-12 digital learning resources statewide was vetoed and failed veto override, leaving schools without coordinated tech toolkit.

(H) Veto Override Failed in Legislature
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Bill Summary · HB 861

Legislative bill overview

HB 861 would establish statewide access to a K-12 digital toolkit for Montana schools, ensuring all public school students have access to consistent digital learning resources and technology infrastructure. The bill passed the legislature but was vetoed by the Governor on June 9, 2025, with a subsequent veto override attempt failing in July 2025.

Why is this important

Digital access disparities significantly affect student learning outcomes, particularly in rural Montana where broadband infrastructure is limited. Standardizing digital resources across districts could reduce educational inequities, improve college and career readiness, and help schools meet modern curriculum standards—though implementation costs and local control concerns created friction in the legislative process.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding mechanism: The bill's fiscal impact and whether state or local resources would bear implementation costs likely drove the Governor's veto
  • Local control vs. standardization: Rural and urban districts may have different technology needs and preferences, raising concerns about one-size-fits-all mandates
  • Digital equity definition: Disagreement over what constitutes adequate "access" (broadband speed, device types, software licensing, professional development) and who defines standards

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

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