House Bill No. [insert number] introduces the "Defend the Guard Act," which establishes that the Montana National Guard cannot be deployed to active combat duty without an official declaration of war or specific congressional action. The bill outlines definitions related to military service and the powers of the governor concerning the National Guard. It specifies that the governor retains authority to activate the National Guard for federally funded missions that remain under state control, such as training, responding to domestic emergencies, and homeland defense activities.

The bill emphasizes the requirement for congressional approval before the Montana National Guard can be released for active duty combat, thereby reinforcing state control over its National Guard members. It also clarifies that the provisions do not restrict the governor's ability to consent to certain federally funded missions or to conduct constitutionally authorized missions under federal law, as long as they comply with the act's stipulations. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.