MontanaHB 57269th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)HouseWALLET

Revise MCE prison industries training program laws

Sponsored By: John Fitzpatrick (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Corrections

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

More classes and job training in prison

The law expands the prison industries program to include classroom education along with job training and work. Montana Correctional Enterprises can contract with public or private schools to teach these classes. Training can match skills that private employers want. The Department of Corrections also builds a preapprenticeship for inmates in the construction program with labor unions and the building trades. This preapprenticeship section ends December 30, 2026.

Prison construction and purchasing changes

Any Department of Corrections facility or program can buy prison‑made goods without the usual state procurement steps. Inmate construction projects at Montana State Prison can cost up to $600,000 per project. The Department of Administration may waive public bidding, bonding, and certain wage rules for these projects. These steps can lower state project costs and paperwork but reduce opportunities for private contractors.

Wider sales of prison-made goods

Montana Correctional Enterprises can sell products and services to governments, schools, nonprofits, and for‑profit companies without old dealer limits. Furniture, print, and sign shop items can be sold directly to the public. MCE can also make motor vehicle license plates and related items. Buyers may see more options and availability, while private vendors face more competition.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

John Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Derek Harvey
Democrat • Senate
Steve Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 284 • No: 14

Senate vote • 4/15/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 42 • No: 8

Senate vote • 4/14/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 46 • No: 4

House vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 98 • No: 1

House vote • 3/4/2025