Gov. Gianforte, Rep. Schomer Highlight Progress of Workforce Housing in Billings

Governor's Office

BILLINGS, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte this week joined Rep. Curtis Schomer, R-Billings, to highlight the progress of a workforce housing development in Billings.

"One of my main priorities since taking office has been making the American dream more attainable for Montanans," Gov. Gianforte said. "Working with the legislature, we've led Montana to lead the nation in practical reforms to increase the supply of housing and support a stronger workforce."

Gov. Gianforte and Rep. Schomer, R-Billings, touring the South Hills Commons housing project in Billings

Touring the South Hills Commons housing project, the governor and Rep. Schomer viewed progress of construction on 35, two- to three-bedroom houses. Once completed the homes will be available to buyers making between 60 and 140 percent of the area's median household income. The houses will be deed restricted to ensure they remain attainable for working families, such as nurses, teachers, and police officers.

"Working with the governor, the legislature has been able to pass meaningful reform to boost the supply of workforce housing," said Rep. Curtis Schomer. "In order to meet construction demand, we also need skilled carpenters, plumbers, and electricians. I've been proud to sponsor several bills to expand trades and Career and Technical education to develop a stronger workforce."

In the 2025 legislative session, Rep. Schomer sponsored two bills that expanded apprenticeship opportunities and pathways across the state. One of the bills, House Bill 336, expanded apprenticeship pathways to 32 occupationally licensed professions, including trades, healthcare, and technical careers. Another bill, House Bill 908, expanded the job growth tax credit to encourage employers to hire and train apprentices.

Recently, the state of Montana was ranked in the top five states for housing freedom by the Cato Institute. The report indicated notable reforms signed into law by the governor as contributing to the ranking, including legislation that encourages development in Montana's most populated cities to allow accessory dwelling units by right and expanded duplex and multi-family housing opportunities in areas traditionally zoned for single-family homes.

The governor has also championed streamlining local permitting to shorten timeline delays and lower compliance costs for homebuilders. These policies brought what some have regarded as the "Montana Miracle," the impact of the set of bipartisan land-use and housing reform laws that led to an increase the overall housing supply.

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