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MT

Bill

HB 18

Deposit non-levy revenue in school equalization and property tax relief account

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Thane

Montana dedicates non-levy state revenues to a school equalization and property tax relief fund, restricting legislative discretion over these resources annually.

Chapter Number Assigned
#schoolfinance #taxation(generally) #taxation--property
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Bill Summary · HB 18

Legislative bill overview

HB 18 directs Montana to deposit non-levy revenue (revenue not derived from property taxes) into a dedicated school equalization and property tax relief account rather than the general fund. The bill was signed into law on April 7, 2025, after passing both chambers of the legislature.

Why is this important

This bill affects how Montana allocates state revenue to education and property tax relief. By earmarking specific revenue streams, it constrains the legislature's flexibility in annual budget decisions and potentially increases funding predictability for schools while supporting property tax relief initiatives—issues central to Montana's fiscal policy debates.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: "Non-levy revenue" may be ambiguous, creating disputes over which revenue sources qualify and affecting the account's actual funding level
  • Budget flexibility: Earmarking revenues reduces the legislature's ability to respond to emergency needs or shifting priorities in subsequent budget cycles
  • Competing priorities: Dedicating funds to property tax relief versus education spending could pit these goals against each other if the account grows insufficiently

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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