Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has announced that three of his legislative priorities have passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. These bills aim to prevent the closure of Bull Mountains Mine, reauthorize the DOE Quantum Energy Act, and address housing challenges within federal agencies.

The first bill, introduced as S.4432 in May 2024, seeks to allow specific sections of federal minerals to be mined to keep Bull Mountains Mine operational. "The Bull Mountains Mine near Roundup, Montana, provides over 250 Montanans with high paying jobs and great benefits," said Daines. He emphasized the mine's significance to Musselshell County in terms of employment and tax contributions.

In August 2024, Daines introduced the "DOE Quantum Leadership Act," which renews and expands his previous "National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018." This legislation aims to maintain U.S. leadership in technology and energy security. "America is a global leader in science and technology," Daines stated, noting the importance of quantum research for national security and economic growth.

Additionally, Daines introduced the bipartisan Land Manager Housing and Workforce Improvement Act alongside Senators Barrasso and King in September 2024. This bill addresses housing shortages affecting employees of agencies like the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. According to Daines, "This legislation will provide much-needed housing relief to Montanans who are living paycheck to paycheck."