State Legislation

The 68th Montana Legislature kicked off on January 2nd, 2023. This year’s session looks to be action packed with over 4400 bill requests in the system at the end of the first legislative week. Most of these early bills have been bills requested by various state agencies. However, legislator sponsored bills are starting to work their way through the various committees.

The 2023 session is in a unique position as it is operating with huge budget surpluses. Over 15 billion dollars came into the state in the form of Covid-19 relief.

The major issues for the 2023 legislative session appear to be as follows: (1) providing tax relief for Montanans, particularly in the area of property tax relief; (2) ensuring a balanced budget; (3) providing relief for Montana’s nursing homes/extended care facilities through adjusting state Medicaid reimbursement amounts up; and (4) revising Montana’s alcohol licensing system. Property tax relief is of interest due to the fact that property tax revenue for the state has significantly increased – to over $90 million per year in ongoing revenue.

As part of your MIB membership, the Association provides lobbying services during years in which there is a Montana legislative session. 2023 happens to be one of those years; and MIB is in Helena representing and defending your interests.

The Association expects the pace of the 2023 session to be a busy one. And the Association will keep you up to date on legislative developments as the session moves forward. Check back here often for updates on the 2023 legislative session and to follow MIB’s policy work on behalf of MIB’s members.