The bill proposes to make certain state-owned lands available for homesteading by requiring the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation to identify suitable parcels of land. These lands must be undeveloped, have legal access, and not be designated as state parks or fishing access sites. Qualified homesteaders must be continuous residents of Montana and can apply to purchase homestead deeds for parcels no larger than 5 acres at full market value. The bill outlines specific requirements for homesteaders, including the obligation to build a primary residence on the property within a designated timeframe, or else the title will revert to the state.

Additionally, the bill grants the department rulemaking authority to implement these provisions and establishes a timeline for identifying suitable lands within one year of the act's effective date. The homesteader must apply for the deed before January 1, 2037, and the department is tasked with determining the market value of the land based on comparable sales. If the homesteader fails to meet the construction requirement within five years, they will receive a refund of the purchase price, and the property will revert to state ownership.