Governor Gianforte Discusses Red Tape Relief, Pro-Housing Reforms with Montanans

• August 14 2023

HELENA, Mont. – On the road last week for his third annual 56 County Tour, Governor Greg Gianforte visited with residents across central Montana to discuss his administration’s work to cut red tape and increase the supply of affordable, attainable housing.

“As Montanans work hard to earn a good living and run their farm or business, they deserve a government that works for them, not the other way around,” Gov. Gianforte said. “We’re listening to our bosses, the citizens of Montana, and removing unnecessary, burdensome regulations so Montanans can prosper. We’re also working to address the shortage of affordable, attainable housing throughout our state, so Montanans can live in the communities where they work.”

Gov. Gianforte taking questions from Montanans following a ceremonial bill signing ceremony in Pray

Visiting with Montanans in Park, Meagher, Wheatland, Sweet Grass, and Stillwater counties last Thursday, the governor heard from residents about tax relief, workforce housing needs, and support for small businesses.

At an event in White Sulphur Springs, the governor highlighted the work of his Housing Task Force and pro-housing reforms enacted this session, including new laws to encourage responsible, proactive housing development, protect rural areas and ag land from sprawl, and eliminate unnecessary permitting hurdles for homebuilding.

“You give us hope in that regard, that we might be able to house all the people that come to town,” shared David Voldseth of Martinsdale.

At a morning event in Park County with Rep. Marty Malone, R-Pray, the governor also promoted the work of his Red Tape Relief Task Force to modernize state code, make government more efficient, and create greater opportunity for Montanans.

Gov. Gianforte with Rep. Marty Malone after ceremonially signing House Bill 85

Led by Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras, the task force introduced 188 red tape relief bills this legislative session, including Rep. Malone’s House Bill 85, which the governor ceremonially signed at the event.

“Through red tape relief, we’re making government more efficient and responsive and creating greater opportunity for hardworking Montanans,” Gov. Gianforte said. “I appreciate the hard work of the lieutenant governor, state agencies, and legislative partners like Rep. Malone to improve state government and help more Montanans prosper.”

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