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Bill

Bill

LC 2470

Revise MCE prison industries training program laws

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would revise prison industries training program laws, potentially affecting incarcerated workers' job skills, compensation, and reentry opportunities.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 2470

Legislative bill overview

LC 2470 would revise Montana's laws governing the MCE (Montana Corrections Enterprise) prison industries training program. The bill is currently in draft form and has not yet been formally introduced in the legislature, so specific provisions are not yet publicly available.

Why is this important

Prison industries programs can significantly impact incarcerated individuals' reemployment prospects, institutional behavior, and recidivism rates. Any revisions to how Montana operates these programs could affect thousands of incarcerated people, correctional budgets, and public safety outcomes following release.

Potential points of contention

  • Wage and compensation structures – Changes to how incarcerated workers are paid could affect both inmate welfare and program sustainability
  • Program access and equity – Revisions might alter who qualifies for training, potentially creating disparities among the incarcerated population
  • Private sector involvement – Any shifts in how MCE contracts with private businesses could raise concerns about labor exploitation or program effectiveness

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

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