House Bill No. [insert number] proposes an appropriation of $65 million from the general fund to the Montana Highway Patrol Officers' Retirement System Pension Fund. This funding is intended as a one-time supplemental contribution to address the system's unfunded liability, which currently stands at $65,377,745. The bill highlights the importance of the Highway Patrol Officers' Retirement System, established in 1945, and notes that as of the end of fiscal year 2024, there are 225 active members and 375 retirees and beneficiaries within the system.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision for its effective date, which is set for July 1, 2025. This timeline allows for the appropriation to be implemented in the upcoming fiscal year, ensuring that the retirement system receives the necessary financial support to maintain its obligations to current and future retirees.