In a landmark move that could reshape the landscape of technology regulation across the United States, Montana has become the first state to codify a ‘right to compute’ into law. Signed by Governor Greg Gianforte in April 2025, Senate Bill 212—known as the Montana Right to Compute Act (MRTCA)—affirms citizens’ fundamental rights to own, access, and utilize computational tools, including artificial intelligence technologies. This legislation positions Montana as a pioneer in protecting digital freedoms amid growing concerns over government overreach in tech innovation.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Kenneth Bogner, emerged from a broader push to safeguard personal and economic liberties in the digital age. According to a report from Montana Newsroom, the MRTCA explicitly prohibits state and local governments from imposing undue restrictions on the use of computing resources on private property. This includes activities like running blockchain nodes, distributed storage systems, and AI modeling, which are seen as essential for innovation in fields such as cryptocurrency and machine learning.

The Genesis of Digital Rights Legislation

Industry observers note that Montana’s initiative draws inspiration from similar protective measures in other domains, such as the state’s recent laws on Bitcoin rights and privacy. For instance, posts on X from accounts like Bitcoin Laws highlight Montana’s Financial Freedom and Innovation Act, which bans central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and protects self-custody of cryptocurrencies, mining, and node operations. This pattern underscores Montana’s proactive stance on fostering a tech-friendly environment.

Governor Gianforte emphasized the law’s importance in a statement reported by Mountain States Policy Center: “Montana is standing up for freedom and innovation. With this law, we’re protecting Montanans’ right to build, compute, and innovate on their own property without unnecessary government interference.” Such rhetoric aligns with broader conservative efforts to limit regulatory burdens on emerging technologies.

Implications for AI and Blockchain Industries

One of the more intriguing aspects of the MRTCA is its provision requiring the shutdown of AI-controlled critical infrastructure under certain conditions, as detailed in bill tracking from FastDemocracy. This clause aims to mitigate risks associated with autonomous systems in sectors like energy and transportation, reflecting a balanced approach that promotes access while addressing safety concerns.

Tech experts on platforms like Hacker News have praised the law for its potential to attract startups and innovators. A discussion thread on Hacker News from November 2025 describes it as a ‘digital Second Amendment,’ drawing parallels to gun rights, especially in light of 3D printing technologies for firearms. An X post from AmmoLand News in April 2025 echoed this sentiment, stating: “Montana’s Right to Compute Act may be the most important pro-gun, pro-freedom law of the year—and it doesn’t mention guns once.”

Broader National and Economic Impacts

Comparisons to other states reveal Montana’s leadership. For example, while states like New Hampshire have considered similar bills, none have advanced as far. Rep. Keith Ammon of New Hampshire congratulated Montana in a press release covered by CBS42: “Congratulations to Senator Zolnikov and the Montana Legislature for being the first to establish the ‘right to compute’ in law!” This cross-state admiration suggests potential for replication elsewhere.

Economically, the law could boost Montana’s appeal as a hub for tech firms. According to Palmetto Promise Institute in an August 2025 article, the MRTCA secures “personal freedom and economic innovation” by ensuring unimpeded access to computational resources. This is particularly relevant for industries reliant on high-performance computing, where regulatory clarity can drive investment and job creation.

Privacy and Security Dimensions

Montana’s track record on digital rights extends beyond computation. An X post from Proton in May 2025 celebrated the state’s closure of the “data broker loophole,” preventing law enforcement from buying personal data without warrants. Similarly, historical actions like Governor Steve Bullock’s 2018 executive order on net neutrality, as reported in an X post from AJ+, demonstrate a consistent commitment to user protections.

However, the MRTCA isn’t without controversy. Critics argue that unrestricted AI use could exacerbate issues like energy consumption or misuse in critical infrastructure. The bill’s shutdown requirements for AI in such areas, as noted in FastDemocracy, attempt to address these risks, but implementation details remain to be seen.

Future Trajectories and Challenges

Looking ahead, industry insiders speculate on how this law might influence federal policy. With discussions on X and web sources indicating growing interest—such as a November 2025 Hacker News story gaining traction—the MRTCA could inspire a national dialogue on computational rights. Montana’s expansion of its Right to Try law in June 2025, sponsored by Senator Ken Bogner and covered by NBC Montana, further illustrates the state’s innovative legislative approach.

As other states watch closely, Montana’s bold step may catalyze a wave of similar protections. Governor Gianforte’s signing statement, via Fox4KC, reinforces this vision: “We’re protecting Montanans’ right to build, compute, and innovate.” For tech professionals, this law represents not just a legal safeguard but a blueprint for balancing innovation with oversight in an increasingly digital world.