Delivering tax relief and conservative wins

As we head into the transmittal break, I want to take a moment to reflect on the strong work the Montana Senate has accomplished in the first half of the legislative session. Transmittal break marks the deadline for general bills to pass out of their originating chamber and move over to the House for further consideration. It is a critical checkpoint in the session, and I am proud to say that we have delivered for Montanans.

One of the biggest victories so far has been the passage of my bill, Senate Bill 90, a major tax reform measure to provide real property tax relief for Montana homeowners. With rising property taxes burdening families across our state, we knew action was needed. SB 90 takes a commonsense approach by using revenues from lodging and rental car taxes — much of which comes from out-of-state visitors — to provide tax relief directly to Montanans.

Under this bill, qualifying homeowners will receive a credit on their property taxes, easing the financial strain on families, seniors, and hardworking Montanans. The Department of Revenue will certify primary residences to ensure this relief reaches those who truly need it, while counties will be responsible for distributing the assistance. In the current state, the bill will show up as a credit of approximately $236 per year, but I’m hoping to increase that amount.