Billings Gazette opinion: Don’t let sun set on Montana economic development

A state as vast and diverse as Montana needs a multitude of economic development tools — programs the fit different types of business and communities.

The Montana Legislature and Gov. Marc Racicot recognized that need 20 years ago by establishing a suite of economic development tools for Main Street businesses. These programs were re-authorized ten years ago and are now approaching sunset on July 1 — unless they are renewed this legislative session.

The proposal doesn’t request an increase in funding, just level-dollar funding. HB52 has virtually no opposition, yet it remains in House Appropriations Committee a month after its hearing while the clock ticks toward the session’s adjournment next month.