Montana 2025 Regular Session

Montana House Bill HB161

Introduced

1/9/25

Refer

1/10/25

Engrossed

1/30/25

Refer

2/18/25

Enrolled

4/22/25

Passed

5/12/25

Caption

Establish a vending machine account in the special revenue fund

Impact

The introduction of HB 161 is expected to positively impact state laws by ensuring a consistent revenue source for public health initiatives associated with the vending operations. By allowing the collection of funds from these vending machines, the bill facilitates targeted funding for health services, potentially improving overall health-related outcomes in the community. Moreover, the establishment of a statutory appropriation means that funds can be accessed without needing ongoing legislative approval, which could streamline the process for funding initiatives that support public health.

Summary

House Bill 161 establishes a vending machine account within the state special revenue fund, specifically benefitting the Department of Public Health and Human Services. The bill mandates that a portion of the income generated from vending machines located on federal and state properties, as long as they are not run by blind vendors, is to be deposited into this newly created account. This initiative is aimed at providing a dedicated revenue stream that can be utilized for public health purposes in accordance with federal regulations.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 161 appears to be supportive, particularly among public health advocates and legislators who see the utility of reallocating income from vending operations toward health programs. Supporters argue that this measure strengthens the state's ability to fund essential health services consistently. However, there might be some concerns regarding the specifics of how the revenue will be managed and whether it will indeed lead to improved health services or simply become a bureaucratic mechanism without tangible benefits for Montanans.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 161 may include the potential regulatory oversight relating to the vending machines and the accountability regarding how the funds will be spent. Opponents might question whether the revenue generated will be sufficient to truly enhance public health services or if it primarily serves as an additional funding mechanism for the existing bureaucracy. Ensuring transparent reporting and the effective use of funds will be critical in addressing concerns from those wary of the bill's implementation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT SB85

Establish a vending machine account in the special revenue fund

MT HB1823

In revenues, further providing for establishment of State Gaming Fund and net slot machine revenue distribution.

MT SF2129

Gross revenues tax on entities manufacturing and selling products containing PFAS imposition; xx cleanup account in the special revenue fund establishment; XX Advisory Commission establishment

MT HF3069

Tax on certain growth of certain assets of colleges and universities established, and special revenue fund account established.

MT SF3194

Certain assets of colleges and universities tax on certain growth establishment and special revenue fund account establishment

MT HB2094

Authorizing the sale of electronic cigarettes in cigarette vending machines.

MT H4293

Establishing an economic development special revenue account for the town of Hopkinton

MT HB515

Generally revise laws relating to school facilities consolidating two existing state special revenue accounts

MT S1736

Establishing a board of hoisting machinery regulations

MT SB955

Beverage containers: supermarkets: reverse vending machines.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.