Many Montanans have benefited from a federal incentive that gives first-time home buyers an $8,000 tax credit. But that tax break is set to expire at the end of next month. And that's why some law makers and other groups are fighting not only to extend it, but expand the credit to all home buyers of a primary residence.

At Dahlquist Realtors in Great Galls, owner Brett Haverlandt says his business has seen an increase in sales due to the tax credit for first time buyers.

"This really stimulated sales in the latter part of the year for us and we hope it continues," Haverlandt said.

A proposal backed by Senator Johnny Isakson of Georgia and Senator Chris Dodd of Connecticut would not only extend the credit through November of 2010, but also broaden the reach of the program by dropping the requirement that the credit be available only to first time buyers.

"We expect this to add the stimulus to get the housing market going," said David Crowe, Chief Economist for the National Association of Home Builders.

Crowe adds that this would create more than 350,000 jobs, increase home sales, and generate $16 billion in wages and salaries.

According to Crowe, "We are also working hard to get more credit flowing to the building industry to meet the consumer demand that we expect."

Some area residents are on board with the plan for extension and expansion.

"The housing market is not doing well,” said Sharon Pulfrey of Great Falls. “If it would stimulate that, it would be a good thing."

"I think it's a good idea,” said Terri Hoy of Great Falls. “It will give people an incentive to buy a house."

As with the Cash for Clunkers incentive program, critics have questioned whether the credit will have any long-term effect on the housing market. Senator Isakson's bill has a price tag of 36 billion. But proponents say its pros will greatly outweigh its cons.

“Any help for down payment assistance for any home buyer will increase sales and boost the economy," Haverlandt said.

Senator Jon Tester has not decided his position on this issue. The senator says he supports giving opportunities to Americans willing to work hard to own their own homes. He wants to make sure that extending this tax credit is right for Montana, that's it's affordable, and won't negatively impact credit or regulatory reform.