U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) announced today that three of his key legislative priorities have successfully passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. These bills, which focus on preserving Montana jobs, advancing quantum research, and tackling housing challenges in federal land management agencies, are poised for further legislative progress.
The first bill, introduced as S.4432 in May 2024, aims to prevent the closure of the Bull Mountains Mine, a critical source of employment in Musselshell County. The legislation would allow specific sections of federal minerals to be mined, enabling the mine to continue operations.
“The Bull Mountains Mine near Roundup provides over 250 high-paying jobs with an average salary of $135,000 per year,” Daines said. “It’s vital to the local economy, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes for the community. Without action, the mine could close due to federal delays. This bill will ensure that Montanans keep their jobs and that this important industry remains operational.”
The second bill, the DOE Quantum Leadership Act, introduced in August 2024, seeks to reauthorize and expand the National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018. This legislation will support the growing field of quantum research and technology, which is crucial to U.S. leadership in science and technology, as well as national security.
“Montana is home to some of the brightest minds in quantum research, and this bill will provide the resources necessary to continue that work,” Daines said. “This legislation will advance quantum R&D, support high-tech jobs in Montana, and secure America’s position as a global leader in energy and technology.”
Key provisions of the DOE Quantum Leadership Act include:
- Reauthorizing quantum R&D activities through 2029
- Expanding the work of the Department of Energy’s National Quantum Research Centers
- Addressing supply chain challenges and commercializing quantum technology
- Boosting workforce training and interagency coordination
Daines also introduced the Land Manager Housing and Workforce Improvement Act in September 2024, a bipartisan effort with Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Angus King (I-ME). This bill addresses housing shortages for workers in the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and other land management agencies.
“The housing crisis in Montana and across the U.S. is exacerbated by inflation and a lack of affordable housing, especially in rural and gateway communities,” Daines said. “This legislation will provide much-needed housing relief for Montanans and federal workers in these essential agencies, improving the workforce and supporting local economies.”
If passed, the Land Manager Housing and Workforce Improvement Act would prioritize housing development for federal land agencies and enhance housing options for workers in national parks and forests, benefiting Montana communities directly.
With bipartisan support, Daines’ legislative successes stand to make a lasting impact on Montana’s economy and workforce, while advancing critical national interests in quantum research and land management.