Press Release: Montana Legislature Nears Conclusion of 69th Session
HELENA — The Montana Legislature is entering the final stretch of its 69th session, with just seven days left to finalize critical legislation. With the deadline approaching, lawmakers are racing to reconcile differing versions of major bills, including House Bill 2, the state’s $16.6 billion budget.
On Monday, the House voted 67-33 to approve the Senate’s amendments to House Bill 2. Supporters, including Rep. Llew Jones, R-Conrad, argue that the changes enhance the budget’s fairness, particularly for working-class families. Conversely, opponents such as Rep. Jane Gillette, R-Three Forks, criticized the budget for lacking serious spending controls.
Meanwhile, property tax reform remains a hot topic, with two bills—HB 231 and SB 542—pending further discussion. Legislators are also finalizing income tax reform, as Governor Greg Gianforte recently signed House Bill 337, which lowers income tax rates and is expected to reduce state tax revenues by $250 million annually. While Republican leaders tout the reform as beneficial for Montanans, Democratic leaders claim it disproportionately favors wealthier citizens.
As legislative committees convene this week, crucial negotiations will determine the final shape of Montana’s fiscal policies.
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