House Joint Resolution No. HJ 55 requests an interim study of the licensing standards, education, and practices of property management in Montana. The resolution highlights the importance of property managers in managing residential and commercial properties and notes that they are required to obtain a license through education and training approved by the Department of Labor and Industry. The study aims to review current licensing and fee requirements, assess compliance with the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, and examine the costs incurred by landowners and tenants due to property management practices. Additionally, it seeks to identify best practices from other states that could inform potential legislative changes.

The resolution mandates that the Legislative Council designate an appropriate interim committee to conduct the study, which should include soliciting feedback from various stakeholders such as property managers, landlords, tenants, and housing policy experts. The findings and recommendations from the study are to be presented to the designated committee and reported to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026. This initiative reflects the state's recognition of the need for regulated property management practices to ensure quality rental services and address rising rental costs.