Maddy summarySB 266 requires Montana cities with populations over 5,000 to allow triplexes (three-unit homes) and fourplexes (four-unit homes) in areas where single-family homes are permitted, without imposing stricter rules than those for single-family properties. The bill mandates that zoning regulations for these multi-unit housing types cannot be more restrictive than those for single-family residences, including limits on parking (max one space per unit) and reduced requirements for lot sizes or building setbacks. It also encourages local governments to adopt additional housing strategies, such as eliminating or reducing off-street parking mandates and permitting accessory dwelling units. This bill directly affects cities meeting the population threshold, aiming to increase housing density options for residents.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 192 would have imposed a 10% tax on digital advertising revenue generated within Montana by companies with worldwide annual digital advertising revenue exceeding $25 million. It directly affects large digital advertisers (like major tech or social media platforms) operating in Montana, taxing only the portion of their revenue derived from ads served to Montana users. The tax would be calculated using an apportionment method based on Montana ad revenue relative to total U.S. ad revenue, with returns due annually by April 15. All collected revenue would have been deposited into Montana's general fund, as specified in the bill's provisions. The bill died in committee in May 2025 and was not enacted.
Maddy summarySB 128 prevents Montana county governing bodies from removing election administration duties from the county clerk and recorder during that official's current term in office. The bill amends state law to clarify that while counties can transfer these duties for future terms, they cannot do so while the clerk is currently serving. It also allows clerks to voluntarily give up election duties during their current term and specifies that the county clerk remains the primary election administrator responsible for voter records and federal election compliance. The law would have taken effect immediately upon passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill clarifies Montana's definition of "actual physical control" under DUI laws, specifically excluding certain non-driving scenarios from DUI charges. It states that a person is not in "actual physical control" if seated in a passenger seat with the engine running but not in gear, if the vehicle is disabled (not from a collision), or if manually pushing a disabled vehicle. This directly affects individuals stopped in vehicles under these specific conditions who might otherwise face DUI charges. The amendment does not change DUI penalties, alcohol limits, or other legal standards - it only refines the definition of when a DUI charge applies.
Maddy summarySB 195 would allow individuals aged 18 to 20 to possess and consume beer or table wine with parental consent or in the presence of a spouse who is 21 or older. This applies only on private property or at licensed venues permitted by the business, and requires counties or local governments to adopt the change through a local ordinance or resolution. The bill amends Montana’s alcohol laws (specifically sections 16-3-301, 16-3-309, 16-4-1002, 16-4-1006, and 16-6-305) to create this exception to the general prohibition on underage drinking. It does not automatically change state law; local governments must proactively adopt the provision through their own rules.
Maddy summarySB 197 would have reverted Montana's surety bail bond insurance licensing and operational rules to their pre-2023 requirements. It specifically amended sections of the law to remove recent changes, requiring insurance producers selling surety bail bonds to meet prior examination and licensing standards (Section 33-17-212), updating rules for surety insurers regarding collateral and reporting (Section 33-26-108), and clarifying bail surrender procedures (Sections 46-9-401 and 46-9-510). The bill directly affected insurance producers, courts, law enforcement, and defendants using bail bonds. However, it died in the legislative process in May 2025 and never became law.
Maddy summarySB 331 requires all state-owned or state-operated buildings in Montana to install automatic fire sprinkler systems or equivalent fire suppression systems. This bill amends the state building code to mandate this safety feature for government buildings, including offices, schools, and facilities managed by state agencies. The key provision adds a specific requirement to the building code rules, ensuring all state buildings meet this fire safety standard. It directly affects every Montana state building, enhancing fire protection without applying to private or non-state properties.
Maddy summarySB 32 revises Montana's property tax structure by adjusting tax rates for multiple property classes. It lowers the tax rate for mining property (Class 2) from 3% to 1.65% of gross proceeds, sets agricultural land (Class 3) at 1.65% of productive value, and modifies residential/commercial rates (Class 4), including a reduced 1% rate for owner-occupied homes and a 1.4x multiplier for properties over $1.5 million. The bill also adds an inflation adjustment for local government tax levies and clarifies definitions for properties like nonproductive mining claims and owner-occupied residences. These changes directly affect property owners across Montana, particularly in agriculture, mining, and residential real estate.
Maddy summarySB 129 would allow Montana voters to voluntarily indicate a political party preference (such as Democratic, Green, Libertarian, Republican, or "prefer not to answer") when registering to vote or updating their registration. The bill requires that this preference be included in official voter registration lists and precinct registers, using a standardized form with specific party options. If enacted, the changes would take effect on January 1, 2026, directly affecting voters who choose to select a party preference on their registration.
Maddy summarySB 397 would have revised Montana's process for valuing centrally assessed property (like commercial or industrial properties). It required the Department of Revenue and property owners to agree in writing on a specific independent appraiser and share costs before using one; if they couldn't agree, the Department would select and pay for the appraiser but must share the original appraisal with the owner if modifying results. The bill applied to property tax years starting after 2025. This procedural bill died in committee in May 2025 and never became law.