
There are currently two bills that have be introduced into the Montana state legislature that are of interest to those who care about parks, recreation, and trails!
HB 5, sponsored by Representative John Fitzpatrick includes, among other very important funding programs, the Trails Stewardship grant Program (TSP). Currently TSP, state parks, and non-game programs each receive 4% of the recreational marijuana tax collected. The Governor’s proposal recommends a reduction to two of these programs to 3% and that TSP is likely one of those to be reduced.
Since 2021, TSP has awarded approximately $5.6 million in funding to 140 trail-related projects across the state. Billings has received $175,000 to build the new trails at Riverfront Park between the Washington St. Bridge and Lake Josephine, and the Stagecoach Trail.
In 2025, Billings TrailNet and the City of Billings are counting on TSP to rehab the older trails at Riverfront Park and also the Black Otter Trail at Swords Park.
HB 170, sponsored by Representative Millett, will be heard in House Administration Committee January 16, 10 AM, Room 155. It would require legislative review of federal financial assistance programs. An immediate concern is that it could affect no less than two of our trails and recreation funding programs, the Recreation Trails Program (RTP) and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
LC 0907, sponsored by Representative Deming, would prohibit the state from awarding grants to non-profits. If passed it would have devastating impacts on trails, recreation and parks programs statewide. This is not the first time this idea has raised its head in past sessions.