MPPC

The Montana Public Policy Center is committed to making Montana the freest and most prosperous state in the nation—a place where everyone has a fair opportunity in life, families can afford to thrive, and our education system fully meets the needs of children. Unfortunately, Montana Senate Bill 240 (SB 240) threatens these principles and could undermine the conservative values that Montanans overwhelmingly support.

At first glance, SB 240 appears to address the growing issue of debanking, but in reality, it could force financial institutions to do business with radical environmental groups like Earthjustice and the Montana Environmental Information Center (MEIC). These organizations have long worked against Montana’s energy industry, agriculture, and natural resource development, pushing extreme policies that destroy jobs and hurt rural communities. Montana must not enact a law that inadvertently strengthens the very groups seeking to undermine our economy.

Attorney General Austin Knudsen has led the fight against financial discrimination, standing up to banks that unfairly target gun manufacturers, energy producers, and other industries vital to our state. SB 240 could undo these efforts by forcing financial institutions to serve organizations that actively oppose Montana’s prosperity.

Montana lawmakers should reject SB 240 and ensure our financial system is not weaponized to support radical environmental activism.

The Montana Public Policy Center, through its Next Generation Montana initiative, is committed to equipping residents with the tools for self-sufficiency and prosperity by expanding access to quality education, abundant job opportunities, and comprehensive skills development. In alignment with this mission, we support HB 320, which establishes Montana’s Academic Prosperity Program for Scholars (MAPPS)—a privately funded, income education tax credit program designed to empower parents in directing their children’s education.

MAPPS would be Montana’s first truly universal school choice program, ensuring that every K-12 student has access to education options that best suit their needs. The program allows families to utilize up to $7,000 per year for a wide range of educational expenses. It builds on the state’s successful tax credit scholarship policies, which were upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in Espinoza v. Montana (2020).

MAPPS provides two key pathways for families seeking educational assistance:

1. Charitable Donations for Low- and Middle-Income Families – Education Assistance Accounts, funded by private charitable contributions, will provide eligible families with up to $7,000 annually for K-12 education expenses. Parents will have direct control over how these funds are used.
2. Education Tax Credits – Parents will be eligible to claim a state tax credit for qualifying education expenses, up to their state tax liability, with a maximum benefit of $7,000 per year per student.

Through Next Generation Montana, we recognize that access to quality education is essential for a prosperous future. HB 320 and the MAPPS program are critical steps toward expanding educational opportunities and empowering Montana families. We urge policymakers to support this initiative to ensure that all students can reach their full potential.

The Montana Public Policy Center is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new Facebook page! This marks a significant step forward in MPPC’s mission to inform, engage, and connect with Montanans who care deeply about liberty, responsible governance, and sound public policy.

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, social media has become an essential platform for sharing ideas and fostering meaningful dialogue. By launching a Facebook page, MPPC aims to:

• Reach More Montanans: Connect with individuals from all corners of the state to share updates, initiatives, and success stories.
• Foster Community Engagement: Create a space where supporters, advocates, and citizens can exchange ideas and discuss key issues affecting Montana.
• Promote Transparency and Accessibility: Make it easier for people to access MPPC’s research, policy recommendations, and upcoming events.

What You’ll Find on the MPPC Facebook Page

The new Facebook page will serve as a hub for:

• Timely Updates: Stay informed about the latest developments in Montana public policy and MPPC’s initiatives.
• Educational Content: Access research, policy briefs, and thought-provoking articles that break down complex issues.
• Event Announcements: Get the details on upcoming webinars, workshops, and community forums.
• Calls to Action: Learn how you can get involved in supporting policies that promote liberty, fiscal responsibility, and economic opportunity.

A Platform for Dialogue

MPPC’s Facebook page isn’t just about sharing information — it’s about starting conversations. Followers will have the opportunity to comment, ask questions, and engage in constructive discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing Montana.

How You Can Support

Supporting the Montana Public Policy Center’s mission is as easy as clicking “Like” and “Follow” on their new Facebook page. By doing so, you’ll join a growing community of Montanans dedicated to shaping a brighter future for the Treasure State. Don’t forget to share the page with your friends and family to help spread the word!

Visit and follow the Montana Public Policy Center’s Facebook page today @ facebook.com/MontanaPublicPolicyCenter

 

The Spring Creek Mine, operated by the Navajo Transitional Energy Company in Big Horn County, Montana, is currently facing an unprecedented challenge after years of adversity.

In response, the Department of the Interior is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the mine’s future. The Draft EIS has been released for public review, but unfortunately, three of the four proposed alternatives could jeopardize the mine’s viability.

The mine supports 265 jobs, with an average salary nearing $120,000, making it a crucial economic asset for a small community where the average income is just $20,000. The revenue generated is essential for maintaining local schools and emergency services, and it provides vital support for families in an area with limited opportunities. Spring Creek Mine operates safely and is recognized for its exemplary reclamation practices.

View the full comment HERE

The Montana Public Policy Center is unequivocally against the proposed Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax  (CAMT).

This rule will be incredibly harmful to businesses in Montana and across our country. As inflation diminishes the purchasing power of our dollars, many more companies could fall under the CAMT’s threshold, even if their actual financial growth hasn’t kept pace with inflation. This will discourage investment in the marketplace, weaken our economy, and potentially trigger an economic slowdown. For the average person, the practical impact is far worse. Rising prices and inflation are crushing families and slowly pulling the American Dream out of reach. This proposed rule change by the Biden-Harris Administration will only add fuel to the fire.

View full comment HERE