Legislative Notes
Property tax reform is top priority
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Montana’s property taxes are out of control. That’s why our top priority this session is passing permanent property tax relief for Montanans. And we’re not alone: Governor Gianforte signaled property tax reform is at the top of his to-do list this session in his recent State of the State address.
While we all agree on the need for property tax reform, debate this session will be over how to offer Montanans real, permanent relief on their property tax bills. Here are some solutions-oriented policy proposals that would provide immediate, permanent property tax relief for Montana homeowners:
The Homestead, Comstead, and Agstead Exemption Bill would demand that vacation home owners from out-of-state, who do not pay Montana state income taxes despite contributing to rising cost of living, will pay their fair share. This will fund direct, permanent property tax decreases for Montana homeowners and small business owners as well as more affordable rent for those who do not own a home. Every full-time resident of Montana deserves relief, and we can offer that relief simply by demanding that second homeowners pay their fair share.
A second proposal would ensure that schools across Montana have adequate funding while reducing property taxes. By redirecting excess revenue from the statewide 95 mills levy, we can link school funding directly to permanent property tax buy-downs. Montanans need property tax relief, but not at the expense of our children. This is a win-win situation for both homeowners and Montana students and teachers.
A related bill proposes mechanisms to reduce administrative overhead in schools, ensuring more of your taxpayer dollars reach the classroom. Finally, changing Montana’s business equipment tax would benefit more Montana small business owners. One proposal eliminates unnecessary and intrusive requirements on already-strapped small business owners for counting minor assets like forks and spoons. This frees up business owners to focus on what really matters: growing their businesses, hiring more workers, and contributing to Montana’s economic growth.
The above proposals are solutions-oriented approaches to reducing the pressure of skyrocketing property taxes on Montana families and small businesses. We are proud to work alongside the Governor to pursue these solutions and more as we remain united in tackling this top priority for Montanans.
Together, we can permanently lower property taxes while still supporting our small businesses and ensuring our schools have the funds they need to hire quality teachers and educate the next generation of Montanans.
