The Legislative and Local Affairs Council Committee members and City Administration recommend Council adoption of the Resolution to set City priorities for the 2027 Montana Legislative Session.

Prior to each legislative session, the City Council adopts legislative priorities to establish the City’s policy direction and guide the work of the City Council, the City Council Legislative Committee, City staff, and the City’s lobbyists. The resolution serves as the foundation for developing and implementing the City’s legislative strategy and helps ensure that those representing the City are aligned and consistent in advancing the City’s interests throughout the legislative session.

The 70th Montana Legislature will convene on January 4, 2027. In preparation for the legislative session, it is important for the City Council to establish legislative priorities that provide clear policy direction to the City Council Legislative Committee, City staff, and the City’s lobbyists. The proposed resolution is intentionally broad to provide flexibility in responding to legislation and issues that may arise during the session while maintaining consistency with the City Council’s established priorities.

The City Council Legislative Committee, chaired by Council Member Kennedy, developed the proposed resolution for consideration by the full City Council. The resolution identifies five primary legislative priorities:

1. Public Safety
2. Infrastructure
3. Shifting the Tax Burden
4. Economic Development
5. Land Use

In addition to these priorities, the resolution recognizes the importance of coordinating with the Montana League of Cities and Towns (MLCT), Yellowstone County, and other partners on legislative issues where there is a shared benefit to the Billings community.

Development and adoption of the City’s legislative priorities has minimal direct fiscal impact. However, the passage or failure of legislation during the 2027 Legislative Session may have significant short- and long-term fiscal impacts on the City.

City Council may approve the proposed legislative priorities or not approve the proposed priorities and provide further direction to the City Council Legislative Committee and staff.