Montana’s New Laws For 2026: What You Need To Know

New Montana Law Changes Taking Effect This Year

As most of you probably know, Montana operates on a biennial system, meaning the state legislature only meets every other year. In our case, that happens during odd numbered years.

That means with a new year here, the laws passed during the 2025 legislative session are now officially in effect. So what’s new under the Big Sky for 2026?

Expanded Protections for Physicians: Changes to Noncompete Agreements

One of the first changes affects physicians and their employment contracts. Montana already has some of the strongest non-compete laws in the country, and this new law expands on that.

Under the change, employers are prohibited from enforcing non-compete and non-solicitation agreements against physicians in a wider range of situations. The goal is to make it easier for doctors to practice where they’re needed most, especially in rural and underserved communities.

Regulation of Kratom Products

Kratom, a plant-based product often marketed for pain relief, energy, or mood support, will now fall under a clear regulatory framework.

The new law lays out specific rules for manufacturers and retailers while focusing on consumer safety and product transparency. This helps clear up some of the confusion that surrounded kratom sales, which had existed in a bit of a legal grey area across America.

Property Tax Overhaul Continues

The biggest change coming in 2026 is the continued rollout of Montana’s multiyear property tax restructuring, which will impact how these taxes are calculated across the state.

The desired goal is easing the burden on primary residences while increasing rates on higher-value homes, second homes, and some investment properties.