Bill > SJ8

This bill requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to conduct a comprehensive study of special districts in Montana. The study aims to categorize different types of special districts, understand their funding mechanisms, and evaluate their financial operations, particularly in relation to property tax collections. Specifically, the committee will examine how special districts are funded, whether they are subject to certain statutory requirements, and improve data collection about their purpose, geographic area, governance, revenue, and spending. The bill also calls for an assessment of whether there should be limits on special districts and if current reporting requirements are sufficient. The study is to be completed by September 15, 2026, with the final results, including findings, conclusions, and recommendations, to be reported to the 70th Legislature. This initiative stems from the Governor's Property Tax Task Force recommendation and is motivated by data showing special districts account for approximately 10% of statewide mill-based property tax collections.

Budget and Finance

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0994