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MISSOULA ­– Governor Greg Gianforte recently signed into law, marking a major overhaul of Montana’s Uniform Commercial Code. This 134-page bill was enacted in large part thanks to the efforts of Professor Jonathon S. Byington at the .

The new law modernizes Montana’s commercial laws to address digital assets such as cryptocurrency and updates important legal terminology. It also keeps Montana’s commercial laws aligned with those of other states, which strengthens interstate business transactions.

“This bill updates Montana’s commercial laws to facilitate commerce in the digital age,” Byington said. “It provides a legal framework that encourages technological innovation, financing and economic growth—benefiting both businesses and consumers in Montana.”

The goal of this law is to keep Montana’s legal framework competitive and relevant in a fast-changing economic landscape.

Byington, the Steve and Jane Bahls Professor of Excellence and one of Montana’s Uniform Law Commissioners, has been at the forefront of this legislative effort. A recognized expert in commercial law, Byington authored an article in the explaining why Montana’s commercial laws needed reform. He also helped draft the bill, prepared educational materials for lawmakers, testified before both Senate and House committees and worked across multiple legislative sessions to secure the bill’s passage.

Updating this law clears up confusion and lays the groundwork for cleaner business transactions, Byington said  

“The UCC amendments promote certainty, predictability and fairness in commercial transactions,” Byington said. “By establishing clear default rules, the UCC helps parties negotiate and structure deals with confidence. At the same time, it protects less experienced parties who choose to engage in commercial transactions.”

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Contact: Phil Stempin, director of events, marketing and communications, UM Alexander Blewett III School of Law, 406-243-6509, phil.stempin@umontana.edu.