Montana's Property Tax Shift: Why It's Not True Reform

Montana Capitol building symbolizing property tax reform, clear sky.

Understanding Montana's Property Tax Reform

In 2025, Montana lawmakers introduced two significant proposals aimed at reshaping property taxes. With property taxes being the leading source of revenue for state and local governments, the stakes are high. The bills, SB 542 and HB 231, strive to redistribute the tax burden from primary residences and long-term rentals to commercial properties and other asset classes.

However, this shift raises critical questions regarding equity and efficiency. Both initiatives propose to ease the tax pressure for some residents by placing a heavier load on others, reflecting a troubling pattern of inefficiency.

The Flaws in the Proposed Reforms

Senate Bill 542 is characterized by a more aggressive stance. It freezes property assessments for two years while introducing a tiered-rate tax system, increasing the rates for short-term rentals to 1.9% and commercial properties based on their market value. Such changes could complicate the tax code further and create an uneven playing field.

On the other hand, House Bill 231 also contributes to this growing complexity with new rates for high-value homes that could see an increase of nearly 1%. This raises concerns that lower-income residents may end up shouldering a larger tax burden.

The Need for Meaningful Reform

As both proposals stand, they promise to exacerbate the existing inequities within Montana's property tax framework. A genuine reform must aim to establish a fair tax structure that does not unfairly benefit or disadvantage specific properties. Only then can Montanans feel confident in the integrity of their tax system.

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