Montana House OKs Use of Coal Taxes for R&D
The Montana House of Representatives narrowly approved a measure that, if passed by the Senate, will provide $9-$10 million a year for state research and development projects.
Montana House Bill 260 changes the way in which coal severance taxes are collected to allow a portion of the revenue to be designated for R&D spending.
The new program will support projects conducted at Montana's state universities and at tribal or state technical and community colleges. State agricultural research centers are also eligible for funding and at least 20 percent of the funding must be directed toward production agriculture projects.
The funds may be used for loans or for matching funds for federal or foundation grants.
Montana