MT SB200

Out-of-state cooperative associations, including those from federally recognized Indian tribes, may receive the same rights, exemptions, and privileges as Montana cooperatives if authorized to transact business in the state

The definition of "association" is expanded to include out-of-state entities authorized to do business in Montana that comply with cooperative chapter requirements

Cooperative associations may now be organized as either for-profit or not-for-profit entities, removing the previous requirement that they be nonprofit

The Secretary of State is prohibited from accepting filings using the term "cooperative" from entities not properly organized under cooperative law, with fines of $50 to $1,000 for violations (exempting entities formed before October 1, 2023, and out-of-state cooperatives)

The Secretary of State must send a copy of the act to each federally recognized tribal government in Montana