House Joint Resolution No. 30, introduced by Representatives J. Darling, M. Bertoglio, L. Brewster, and C. Sprunger, calls for an interim study to explore methods for increasing housing density and affordability in Montana. The resolution highlights the urgent need for quality housing supported by sustainable infrastructure for various demographics, including workers, new families, and seniors. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration among state and local governments, housing developers, and the community to address the housing shortage. The resolution also notes that increasing housing density can enhance the taxable value of developments while alleviating the tax burden on individual homeowners.

The resolution requests that the Legislative Council designate an appropriate interim committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into several key areas: incentivizing local housing density, reviewing state programs for housing support, analyzing economic implications of increased housing availability, identifying funding programs for local infrastructure improvements, and exploring methods to encourage greater density in housing developments. The study will involve input from various stakeholders, including housing developers and local governments, and must be completed by September 15, 2026, with the final results reported to the 70th Legislature.