The Montana Legislature convened on January 7, 2025, to introduce House Bill 12, a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the state's Historic Preservation Grant Program. This bill seeks to streamline the administration of grant funds for historic preservation projects while establishing clear guidelines for funding and project management.

House Bill 12 outlines several key provisions. Firstly, it mandates that the Department of Commerce adhere to the latest Montana Historic Preservation Grant Program Project Administration Manual when managing grants. This ensures that all projects meet current standards and requirements. Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a project's costs exceed the allocated grant and matching funds, the grant recipient will be solely responsible for covering any cost overruns, with no supplemental appropriations available to address these excess expenses.

Another significant aspect of the bill is the reimbursement structure for grant disbursements. The Department of Commerce will provide funds on a reimbursement basis, meaning that grant recipients will receive funds only after incurring eligible project expenses. Furthermore, if actual project costs are lower than initially projected, the department has the discretion to reduce the grant amount proportionately to other funding sources.

The bill also includes a provision for communication with tribal governments, requiring the Secretary of State to notify each federally recognized tribal government in Montana about the legislation.

The introduction of House Bill 12 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding its implications for historic preservation efforts in the state. Supporters argue that the bill will promote accountability and efficient use of funds, while critics express concerns about the potential financial burden on grant recipients if projects exceed budget estimates.

As the legislative process unfolds, the bill's future remains uncertain. Experts suggest that its success will depend on the ability of lawmakers to address concerns raised during discussions and to ensure that the bill effectively balances the need for preservation with the financial realities faced by grant recipients. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, should it pass through the legislative process.