Montana's state Senate Taxation Committee has tabled House Bill 231, which aimed to increase property taxes on second homes while providing tax relief for primary residences and long-term rentals. Despite its backing by Gov. Greg Gianforte and passage in the House, it faced substantial opposition in the Senate. Critics argued it unfairly penalized second-homeowners and risked financial impacts on cities. The outcome raises questions over funding for public services and the sufficiency of current property tax measures amidst increased out-of-state home purchases driving local property values up.
The genesis, and ultimately the demise, of Bill 231 was centered on who pays for Montana's public services.
This is not a perfect bill, said Rep. Llew Jones, the bill's sponsor, as he introduced it to the committee.
As much as 23% of property tax bills are delivered to addresses out of state, according to Rep. Jones.
The bill would have cut property taxes for primary residences and long-term rentals, while increasing taxes on second homes.
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