This bill proposes an appropriation of $190,000 from the general fund to the Montana University System for the Local Government Center at the Montana State University-Bozeman Extension Service for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024. The funding is intended to support the hiring of two full-time Associate Training and Technical Assistance Specialists and one half-time Administrative Assistant, addressing the current staffing limitations that hinder the Center's ability to provide essential training, technical assistance, and updated publications to local government entities. The bill emphasizes that this appropriation is meant to supplement existing base funding and will be considered part of the ongoing base for future legislative sessions.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that establishes an effective date of July 1, 2023, for the appropriations made. The Local Government Center, created in 1993, plays a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of local governmental units in Montana, and this funding aims to ensure that it can continue to deliver necessary services efficiently.