MontanaSB 18269th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)Senate

Generally revise MT Indian language preservation program

Sponsored By: Jonathan Windy Boy (Democrat)

Signed by Governor

IndiansEducation - K-12

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Broader tribal-school partnerships and standards

Beginning July 1, 2025, the Office of Public Instruction runs this program with each tribal government. The rules set partner roles and define how to measure language fluency. Tribes can partner with public districts, community choice schools, nonpublic and tribal schools, colleges, and early learning providers. Applications must name the tribal office that will run the work, list the number and role of language and culture specialists, and outline curriculum and training. Plans should use materials created in 2013–2021 at the Montana Historical Society. Budgets may include professional development, and tribes are encouraged to work with other tribes and expert groups.

Equal state funding for each tribe

Beginning July 1, 2025, OPI distributes program funds equally to tribal governments. A tribe must apply and follow the rules to receive money. The act takes effect July 1, 2025.

State funds can match outside grants

Beginning July 1, 2025, tribes may use state program payments as matching funds. This helps them win federal or private grants for language work.

Tribes own program language materials

Beginning July 1, 2025, tribes own all cultural and intellectual property created under this program. Other partners must negotiate with the tribe to use these materials.

Annual reports required, funds paused if late

Beginning July 1, 2025, participating tribes must file a yearly report to OPI in the format the guidelines set. If a tribe does not report, OPI stops sending program funds until the report is filed.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Jonathan Windy Boy
Democrat • Senate

Cosponsors

Tyson T. Running Wolf
Democrat • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 259 • No: 38

House vote • 4/11/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 94 • No: 5

House vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 92 • No: 8

Senate vote • 2/5/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 35 • No: 13

Senate vote • 2/4/2025