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Bill to create one‑time matching grants for shelters draws broad support and agency concerns
Summary
House Bill 310 proposes a one‑time, $2 million matching grant program for homeless shelters, with a 1:1 local match, county caps and scoring; proponents said the money would fund staff and wraparound services, while state agencies urged caution because federal programs already target similar needs.
Representative Melissa Nikolakakos introduced House Bill 310 as a one‑time grant program to help Montana shelters respond to a rising number of people seeking emergency shelter across the state. “House Bill 3 10 establishes a grant program using a modest amount of 1 time money over the course of the next 2 years,” the sponsor said.
The bill would appropriate a one‑time general fund amount (the fiscal note referenced $2,000,000) to a competitive grant program administered by the Department of Commerce, require a 1:1 local match (private funds may count), impose a $250,000 cap per county, and direct the department to use a weighted scoring system in awarding funds.
Why the bill matters
Supporters told the committee that Montana shelters are operating at or beyond capacity and that demand has grown for seniors, veterans, families, victims of domestic violence and young people aging out of foster care. Ella Smith,…
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