Montana 2023 Regular Session

Montana House Bill HB477

Introduced
2/9/23  
Refer
2/13/23  
Engrossed
3/3/23  
Refer
3/14/23  
Enrolled
4/26/23  

Caption

Generally revise corporation laws regarding tribal entities

Impact

The enactment of HB 477 is expected to standardize the treatment of tribal business entities in the state's legal framework, thereby allowing them improved access to the Montana business environment. By officially recognizing tribal corporations in state law, the bill may pave the way for increased tribal economic development and cross-jurisdictional business operations. Moreover, it enhances legal clarity for entities doing business both under tribal laws and state laws, which could prevent future conflicts over jurisdiction.

Summary

House Bill 477 is a legislative measure aimed at revising corporation laws in Montana to acknowledge and include foreign business entities formed under the laws of federally recognized Indian tribes. This bill is designed to ensure that these tribal entities are recognized similarly to foreign corporations, facilitating their operations within the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that specific fees be set by the Secretary of State for recording transactions related to these tribal entities. Such a change would promote better integration of tribal businesses into Montana's economic framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 477 appears to be generally positive among legislators who support the inclusion of tribal businesses within the state’s corporate framework. Proponents argue that this bill is a step toward acknowledging the sovereignty and economic rights of tribal governments. However, there are concerns among critics regarding the bill's potential implications for existing state-business relations and the need for more robust protections and regulations to ensure fairness in the marketplace.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 477 includes the adequacy of the proposed fee structure for recording tribal business transactions. Some stakeholders worry that the fees may be set too high, creating barriers for smaller tribal entities. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate about the extent of jurisdiction that state laws should have over tribal businesses. Ensuring a balance between state oversight and tribal sovereignty remains contentious, highlighting the complex dynamics of integrating tribal laws with state regulations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT SB548

Generally revise laws regarding foreign governments

MT HB128

Generally revise marijuana laws

MT SB200

Generally revise cooperative laws

MT SB377

Generally revise laws regarding the banking commission and the state auditor

MT SB370

Generally revise uniform commercial code

MT HB112

Generally revise human trafficking laws

MT HB774

Generally revise election laws

MT SB507

Generally revise tax laws

MT HB903

Generally revise marijuana laws

MT HB156

Generally revise laws enforced by the State Auditor

Similar Bills

LA HB408

Revises the business corporation laws (RE1 INCREASE SG EX See Note)

LA HB319

Provides for revisions to business corporation law

OR HB3588

Relating to business registrations; and declaring an emergency.

NC S477

Amend Bus. Corp. Act/Bus. Opp. Disclosures

AL SB112

Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code; amended to delete references to Alabama Nonprofit Corporation Law, clarify and streamline certain provisions in accordance with changes in Delaware law and the Model Business Corporation Act

AL HB228

Alabama Business and Nonprofit Entities Code; amended to delete references to Alabama Nonprofit Corporation Law, clarify and streamline certain provisions in accordance with changes in Delaware law and the Model Business Corporation Act