Bill > SB289

This bill requires the Montana Department of Revenue to electronically notify counties when a property's market value has decreased by more than $1.5 million since the last reappraisal. The notice must be sent at the same time the original or revised classification and appraisal notice is sent to the property owner, and it must include the market value from the prior reappraisal cycle and the preliminary new market value. The department must also send a copy of this notice to each municipality within the county's boundaries. If requested, the department must meet with the county and provide any public information used to establish the preliminary market value. For properties subject to central assessment (typically utilities, railroads, and other large infrastructure), the notice will be sent after completing the apportionment process. The bill does not apply to class four residential property, and it will take effect for property tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026. The legislation is intended to be added to Title 15, Chapter 7, Part 1 of Montana state law, which deals with property taxation, and aims to increase transparency in property tax valuation changes.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1345