MontanaSB 18269th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Generally revise MT Indian language preservation program

Sponsored By: Jonathan Windy Boy (Democrat)

Became Law

IndiansSchools and Education

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

How tribes apply and get funds

Starting July 1, 2025, OPI gives program money equally to each participating tribal government. A tribe must apply to take part. The application names the tribal office in charge and shows partner commitments. It lists language and culture specialists and plans for curriculum, teaching, and staff training, using 2013–2021 materials kept at the Montana Historical Society. It outlines a long‑term plan with an estimate of fluent speakers and work with early learning and adult classes. It includes a budget and other funding sources. Tribes can use these payments as match for federal or private grants.

New tribal language program starts July 2025

Beginning July 1, 2025, Montana runs a new Indian language preservation program. The Office of Public Instruction (OPI) works with each federally recognized tribe to set the rules. The program supports spoken, written, sung, and signed language. The rules define roles, fluency measures, performance checks, and how money can be used. The Secretary of State sends this law to every tribal government.

Tribes own language materials they create

Starting July 1, 2025, any cultural and intellectual property from program work belongs to the tribe. Tribes can make agreements with partners on how the materials are used.

Yearly reports required or funds held

Starting July 1, 2025, tribes and partner school districts must file a yearly report to OPI in the required format. OPI can withhold program payments until a tribe files its report. OPI also reports to the Legislature, the Education Interim Committee, and the State‑Tribal Relations Committee. That report includes the program rules, each tribe’s activities, and data on language fluency.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jonathan Windy Boy
Democrat • Senate

Cosponsors

Tyson T. Running Wolf
Democrat • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 258 • No: 38

Senate vote • 4/11/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 94 • No: 5

Senate vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 91 • No: 8

Senate vote • 2/5/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 35 • No: 13

Senate vote • 2/4/2025