Montana Senate approves key bills including Stop Squatters Act amendments

The Montana Senate convened on March 31, 2025, for a session focused on various legislative matters, including committee reports, bill amendments, and appointments. The meeting began with the Senate addressing business number two, where several standing committees presented their recommendations.

The Committee on Taxation, chaired by Senator Greg Hertz, recommended the passage of Senate Bill 539 and the amended versions of Senate Bills 326 and 540. Following this, the Committee on Highways and Transportation, led by Senator Wiley Galt, advised that House Bill 291 be concurred with and that Senate Bill 358 pass as amended.

The Committee on Public Health, Welfare, and Safety, chaired by Senator Dennis Len, reported on multiple house bills, recommending concurrence for House Bills 807, 574, 796, 601, 473, 184, 403, and 576, as well as House Bills 352 and 397, which were also recommended for concurrence in their amended forms.

Senator Greg Gientorte submitted a series of board appointments for confirmation, which included positions on various boards such as the Board of Medical Examiners, the Board of Oil and Gas Conservation, and the Director of the Department of Transportation, among others.

The Senate then received messages from the House of Representatives, which included the passage of several house bills and the establishment of a conference committee to address disagreements on House Bill 151. The Senate also concurred with multiple Senate bills and amendments, including Senate Bill 166 and Senate Bill 111.

Majority Leader McGillivray moved to resolve the Senate into the Committee of the Whole for second reading business. The Senate subsequently considered House amendments to Senate Bill 101, known as the "Stop Squatters Act." Senator Beard presented the bill, which aimed to address unlawful squatting and related offenses. However, concerns were raised by Senator Olsen regarding the removal of safety protections for lawful occupants, leading to a debate on the amendments.

After discussion, the Senate voted on the motion to concur with the House amendments to Senate Bill 101, resulting in 37 votes in favor and 13 against, thereby approving the amendments.

The session concluded with the Senate moving on to consider Senate Joint Resolution 13, continuing the legislative process for the day. Overall, the meeting highlighted significant legislative activity, including the passage of key bills and the confirmation of important appointments, reflecting the ongoing work of the Montana Legislature.