House Joint Resolution No. 55, introduced by A. Regier, calls for an interim study of the licensing standards, education, and practices of property management in Montana. The resolution highlights the role of property managers in managing residential and commercial properties and notes that they are required to obtain licenses through education and training approved by the Department of Labor and Industry. It emphasizes the need for oversight, as the current system does not adequately monitor the costs associated with property management, which have contributed to rising rental prices. Additionally, the resolution points out that foreign corporations and investment groups are not required to employ licensed property managers, potentially compromising the quality of rental properties.
The resolution requests that the Legislative Council designate an appropriate interim committee to conduct a comprehensive review of property management licensing, education, and fee requirements in Montana. The study will also assess the alignment of these requirements with the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and commercial rental laws, as well as the costs incurred by landowners and tenants. The committee is tasked with gathering feedback from various stakeholders, including property managers, landlords, tenants, and housing policy experts, and is required to present its findings to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.