Bill > HB950

This bill establishes a Montana trade office in Israel aimed at promoting economic, cultural, and diplomatic connections between the two regions. The Montana Department of Commerce will be required to staff the office with at least one person, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations through targeted initiatives in key sectors such as agriculture (including pulse crops and agricultural technologies), cultural and educational exchange programs, and technology development in areas like optics, photonics, quantum computing, security, and defense research. The bill appropriates $500,000 from the general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, with the funding intended to be part of the ongoing base budget until June 30, 2033. The trade office's purpose is explicitly promotional and not intended to regulate interstate or international commerce. By creating this dedicated presence in Israel, the bill seeks to help Montana businesses access new markets, attract foreign investment, and foster collaboration in research and innovation, ultimately contributing to the state's economic growth and global competitiveness. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will automatically terminate on June 30, 2033.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3618