Bill > HJ71

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Finance Committee to conduct a comprehensive study of the potential impacts of federal funding changes on the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The study will specifically examine federal directives issued after January 20, 2025, and analyze their effects on state citizens, local and tribal governments, and DEQ programs, with a particular focus on agency operations, budgets, personnel, and the sustainability of federally funded programs. The resolution notes that DEQ currently relies on 36.6% federal funding and has 376.04 full-time equivalent positions partially or fully funded by federal dollars. The Legislative Finance Committee is tasked with presenting its findings to various interim committees and completing the study by September 15, 2026, with a final report to be submitted to the 70th Legislature. The study aims to proactively identify and prepare for potential challenges arising from changes in federal funding and directives that could significantly impact the state's environmental management capabilities.