Provide funding to increase correctional capacity

This Montana bill establishes a new state fund and allocates $220 million to expand correctional capacity by building or renovating a new prison facility. The legislation creates the Future of Corrections Fund to manage money for securing additional facilities through construction or lease-to-own agreements, while also allowing $30 million for planning, technology upgrades, and system assessments. A key provision requires the Budget Director to evaluate whether a proposed facility location has sufficient workforce for inmate rehabilitation before construction proceeds, with funds potentially reverting to the general fund if construction is deemed not in the state's best interests. The bill also mandates quarterly reporting to legislative committees on all expenditures related to the project and includes a contingency plan to redirect funds if the new facility is not built.