House Joint Resolution No. 66, introduced by S. Howell, requests an interim study to assess the impacts of recent and potential changes in federal funding on the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). The resolution highlights that the DPHHS budget is significantly reliant on federal funding, with 68.3% of its budget sourced from federal dollars. The study aims to evaluate how these funding changes could affect various agency operations, personnel, and the sustainability of programs that depend on federal support.

The Legislative Council is tasked with designating the Legislative Finance Committee to conduct this study, which will include a review of federal directives affecting DPHHS since January 20, 2025. The committee will analyze the implications of funding losses on agency operations, personnel reductions, and overall functionality. Additionally, the committee is required to present its findings to relevant interim committees and report the final results, including any recommendations, to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.