What is MT Plastic Free?

MT Plastic Free is a small organization of Montana citizens who are concerned about the health and environmental impacts of plastics. We are working to limit the distribution of single-use plastics across the state in a variety of ways.

Do you focus only on plastics?

Plastics affect many aspects of our lives and environments, and MT Plastic Free is committed to reducing its negative impacts in Montana. However, the Skip the Stuff campaign aims to reduce single-use of all types–whether plastic or otherwise–from food service establishments.

Did Bozeman voters decide to ban single-use plastics?

Yes. In November 2024, 63% of Bozeman voters voted to prohibit businesses from distributing single-use plastic bags and styrofoam containers, as well as to limit straws and beverage stirrers to “upon request” only. But in December 2024, the Montana Supreme Court overturned a District Court decision about who can initiate action to regulate single-use plastics and other “auxiliary containers” and how. That SupCo decision means the City of Bozeman can’t implement or enforce the Bozeman Plastics Ordinance despite the overwhelming support it received from Bozeman residents.

Are plastic bag bans effective?

Yes! On average, bans on single-use plastic bags can eliminate almost 300 plastic bags per person, per year. Researchers have found that plastic bag bans successfully reduce plastic bag litter by at least one-third wherever they have been implemented.

Did Missoula also try to ban single-use plastics?

While local governments (cities and counties) in Montana are currently restricted from taking action to reduce single-use plastics due to state law HB 407, citizens from across the state are taking action.

Which Montana cities are working on plastics?

While local governments (cities and counties) in Montana are currently restricted from taking action to reduce single-use plastics due to state law HB 407, citizens from across the state are taking action. A legal challenge to HB 407 will go to trial in early 2026. The court will decide if HB 407 violates Montanans’ constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment. If the court rules that it does, local governments across Montana will then be allowed to take action on single-use plastics.

Did the Montana State Legislature pass a styrofoam phase-out bill?

Yes! During the 2025 legislature, both the Montana House and Senate passed a bipartisan bill to phase-out polystyrene foam food containers across the state. It was an incredible accomplishment that demonstrated that concern over the impacts of plastic are not partisan. Unfortunately, Governor Greg Gianforte vetoed the bill.

Whom should I contact if I want to get involved?

Currently, citizens in Missoula, Bozeman, and Billings are working together to reduce plastic pollution and to expand the network of citizens in the state who are working to find solutions for this health and environmental problem. Please email mtplasticfreemissoula@gmail.com to get involved. Alternatively, you can navigate to the “Get Involved” page on our website and sign up there.