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Bill

HB 373

Revise lottery proceeds laws to dedicate to education funding

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Matthews

Montana HB 373 would have redirected lottery proceeds to education funding but died in the legislative process after missing appropriation deadlines and failing amendment votes.

(H) Died in Process
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Bill Summary · HB 373

Legislative bill overview

HB 373 proposed revising Montana's lottery proceeds distribution laws to dedicate a larger or different portion of lottery revenues to education funding. The bill underwent amendments during the legislative process but ultimately failed to advance, dying in committee after missing the deadline for appropriation bill transmittal.

Why is this important

Lottery revenue allocation directly affects education budgets and funding stability. Montana schools depend on various revenue sources, and redirecting lottery proceeds could either enhance education funding or reduce revenues for other programs currently supported by those funds. This reflects ongoing legislative debates about education financing and gaming revenue priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue trade-offs: Dedicating more lottery proceeds to education means less funding for other programs that currently receive lottery revenue (such as wildlife, veterans' services, or infrastructure)
  • Funding sustainability: Relying on lottery revenues for education creates budget uncertainty, as lottery revenue fluctuates with consumer participation and economic conditions
  • Implementation scope: Unclear whether the bill would increase total education funding or simply redirect existing lottery money, affecting different stakeholder groups differently

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

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