Confirm governor's appointment for board of realty
Summary
Senate Resolution 44 is a confirmation resolution that approves Governor Greg Gianforte’s appointment of Patti Dundas of Billings to the Montana Board of Realty Regulation. The resolution states that the appointment was submitted to the Senate under Montana law and that Dundas is appointed to serve a term ending July 1, 2025.
The bill does not create new policy or amend substantive law. Instead, it carries out the Senate’s constitutional and statutory role in providing advice and consent for certain executive appointments. If adopted, it authorizes the Secretary of the Senate to transmit the resolution to the Secretary of State and the Governor, completing the confirmation process for the board seat.
Impact
SR 44 affects the membership of the Board of Realty Regulation, the state body responsible for regulating the real estate profession in Montana. It does not change licensing standards, enforcement powers, or other statutes directly, but it confirms one individual to a board position under sections 5-5-302, 5-5-303, and 2-15-1757, MCA. The practical effect is to maintain the board’s functioning by filling an appointed seat.
Sentiment
The available voting history shows strong, unanimous support for the resolution. It passed the Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs Committee 11-0 and then passed the full Senate 50-0. With no committee transcripts provided and no recorded opposition, the overall sentiment appears routine and noncontroversial, consistent with a standard appointment confirmation.
Contention
There is no evidence of substantive contention in the available record. Because the resolution concerns a single gubernatorial appointment rather than policy changes, any disagreement would likely have centered on the nominee’s qualifications or the governor’s appointment authority, but no such concerns are reflected in the votes or materials provided. The unanimous committee and floor votes suggest broad agreement on the appointment.