The Senate Taxation Committee of the Montana Legislature convened on March 31, 2025, to discuss several key pieces of legislation, including amendments and votes on various bills related to taxation and property assessments.

The meeting commenced with a focus on Senate Bill 326, which pertains to media production incentives. The Vice Chair moved for the bill to pass, and an amendment was introduced and discussed. This amendment, which had been collaboratively developed over the weekend, included provisions for investments in Montana, specifically allowing credits for base investments of at least $5 million. The amendment aimed to clarify language regarding percentage-based allocations and ensure that smaller independent filmmakers were not excluded from benefits. After a brief discussion, the amendment passed unanimously, followed by the bill itself, which passed with a vote of 7-1.

Next on the agenda was Senate Bill 539, which addresses revisions to property taxes and special assessments. The Vice Chair moved for the bill to pass, noting ongoing discussions with stakeholders to refine the legislation. The committee voted, resulting in a 6-2 outcome, with Senators Haman and Dunwell opposing the bill.

The committee then turned to Senate Bill 540, which also included an amendment. The amendment aimed to clarify definitions related to locally dedicated communication infrastructure and ensure that such infrastructure remains locally assessed. After a thorough explanation of the amendment's implications, it was passed unanimously. The bill, as amended, was then moved forward, with a vote resulting in a 6-2 outcome, again with Senators Haman and Dunwell opposing.

Following the discussion of these bills, the committee took a brief recess before continuing with Senate Bill 536, which was introduced by Chair Hertz. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts among committee members to refine tax legislation and address concerns from various stakeholders, particularly in the media and property sectors. The outcomes of these discussions will shape Montana's tax landscape moving forward.