The 61st Legislature faced the unenviable challenge of balancing the budget during a time of economic downturn and extreme revenue uncertainty.  Despite a large influx of federal recovery act funding, some of the decisions made by the legislature may lead to cuts in vital programs like education and healthcare, either now or in the future. Many of the cuts are slated for the 2013 Biennium (July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2013) and need not occur if the 62nd Legislature is willing to fill holes created by decisions of the 61st Legislature.

The $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) provides many funding opportunities for tribal governments. Some of these opportunities are contained in Montana’s House Bill 645, the state appropriation of federal stimulus dollars.This brief outlines some of the funding opportunities for tribal governments in HB 645. It also outlines significant funding sources in ARRA that may be allocated directly from the federal government to Montana tribes, primarily through grant applications.

The Montana Budget and Policy Center addresses some common misconceptions surrounding appropriate use of stimulus dollars during the recession.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides extensive relief to states, local governments, and individuals suffering from the current economic downturn. This brief outlines general principles to consider when allocating the funds, and provides information on the core components of the act with the greatest potential for providing relief to low- and moderate-income Montanans.