House Bill No. introduced by S. Howell aims to appropriate funds for the rapid rehousing of individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Montana. The bill establishes a new section that outlines the purpose of the act, which is to provide state funds to supplement federal funds from the emergency solutions grant program. It specifies that the funds appropriated to the Department of Public Health and Human Services can only be used for rapid rehousing assistance as defined by federal regulations. Additionally, the bill details the distribution of these funds, allowing for rental assistance at rates up to 150% of the fair market rent for participants with an annual income below 80% of the area median income.

The bill includes an appropriation of $1 million for each fiscal year 2025 and 2026 from the general fund to support these initiatives. It mandates that all appropriated funds must be distributed by the end of each fiscal year. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring that the necessary financial resources are available to address homelessness in the state.