Montana's House Bill 876 is making waves as it aims to breathe new life into the state's struggling sawmill industry. Introduced on March 29, 2025, by Representatives J. Fitzpatrick and C. Keogh, the bill proposes the creation of a Sawmill Revitalization Special Revenue Account, designed to provide financial support for the revitalization of closed sawmills.

At the heart of the bill is a $6 million fund transfer from the Big Sky Economic Development Fund, which will be administered by the Board of Investments. The board is tasked with offering loans at a low interest rate—capped at 4%—to parties capable of reopening sawmills that have been shuttered. Priority will be given to those looking to revitalize sawmills that closed within the last year, followed by those that have been closed for up to three years.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and industry stakeholders, with proponents arguing that it could significantly boost local economies and job creation in rural areas. Critics, however, raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of such investments, questioning whether the sawmill industry can rebound in a changing economic landscape.

The implications of HB 876 are substantial. If passed, it could signal a renewed commitment to supporting Montana's timber industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. Experts suggest that successful implementation of the bill could lead to increased employment opportunities and economic revitalization in communities that have been hit hard by mill closures.

As the legislative session progresses, all eyes will be on HB 876, with its potential to reshape the future of Montana's sawmill operations and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. The bill's immediate effective date and the urgency of the fund transfer underscore the state's commitment to revitalizing this critical sector.