Desperate to flee crowded streets and cramped apartments, the Covid-19 pandemic caused families to move to the wide-open spaces of Montana at a higher rate than almost any other state in the nation.
However, the state’s housing market did not have the policies or infrastructure in place to manage the influx of people. Years of strict housing regulations greatly harmed Montana’s housing supply and priced locals out of their own communities as demand increased.
That is until Americans for Prosperity (AFP) got involved and forged legislation that removed government barriers, reignited housing development, and paved the way for affordable living to return to the Treasure State.
As early as 2017, Adam Hertz — a former Montana State Legislator and real estate developer — knew the worsening problem would eventually come to a head. Montana offers beautiful scenery, a vibrant culture, and an unmatched quality of life. However, the influx of newcomers and increased demand put further strain on a housing market already choked by regulation.
Montana’s ban on duplexes and other units made the problem worse, while zoning regulations acted as barriers for further development. “The market was so constrained, there was such a supply shortage,” said Hertz. This housing shortage triggered soaring prices, leaving families and lifelong residents incapable of affording property with no path forward.
For Hertz, the real competition didn’t come from other developers but from government regulations.
The lack of competition in the market drove down the quality of houses and increased costs as government regulations replaced free-market forces. Aware that the crisis was not sustainable, former Rep. Hertz asked AFP to get involved as it was capable of large-scale changes needed.
AFP-MT’s Jesse Ramos stated that AFP’s Montana chapter was also frustrated with obstacles in housing development and felt it was time for change. Their team of experts launched a campaign canvassing neighborhoods across the state, driving petitions, delivering testimonies, and initiating key conversations under the dome.
Their efforts paid off with legislation including SB 323 which legalized duplexes statewide, and SB 528 which allowed for accessory dwelling units. AFP also pushed for laws requiring cities to plan their growth ahead of time, adopt zoning reforms, and streamline permitting processes.
These pieces of legislation reduced regulations paving way for lower costs and an increased housing supply helping developers build desired housing rather than what government approved.
The bipartisan support for free-market housing reform in Montana speaks to AFP’s relationships in the state. Their ability to inspire action among diverse grassroots activists shows their awareness of issues important to voters.
With AFP's help Montana serves as a model for other states trying to deregulate housing markets improving affordability enabling prosperity for all residents.
If you want to get involved in your community contact Americans for Prosperity today.
---
