Fresh off a reelection win, Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte has proposed that Montana lawmakers adopt a two-year state budget that prioritizes further tax cuts alongside investments in public safety and education. The proposal represents a starting point for budget negotiations that will occur in and out of public view through the 2025 Legislature.
Highlights of the $17.9 billion proposal include a top-bracket rate cut for state income taxes and a homeowner property tax relief provision recommended by the governor’s tax task force. The governor also wants to put $150 million toward expanding the state prison, set up a $250 million public safety initiative, and funnel $100 million into boosting pay for K-12 teachers. Gianforte’s budget would additionally earmark $300 million to shore up the state pension system.
Gianforte and Budget Director Ryan Osmundson summarized the proposal for reporters at a Nov. 13 press conference, but the administration didn’t publish full details until the afternoon of Friday, Nov. 15…