Bill > HB34

This bill revises the Montana Local Disaster Resiliency Fund by increasing the annual statutory appropriation from $4 million to up to $15 million, starting in fiscal year 2025. The bill eliminates the current termination date of the fund and expands the eligible uses of the funds to include state and local mitigation projects that reduce long-term risks from natural disasters, personnel and contracted resources for mitigation program management, and training and administrative resources. The bill also mandates two significant transfers of $50 million from the general fund to the disaster resiliency fund: one by June 30, 2025, and another during the biennium ending June 30, 2027. The appropriation remains contingent on the state not having a projected general fund budget deficit, and the bill becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval. These changes aim to provide more stable and substantial funding for disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts in Montana, with a focus on reducing long-term risks and improving local emergency response capabilities.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/20251/LC0282