Sen. Tutvedt talks taxes, transparency, budget

Greetings from the Montana Senate. Many good things are happening in Helena for the people of Montana in this 63rd session. I continue to work to be doing the right thing for the right reasons.

Currently we are working on a two-year property-tax reappraisal bill that should bring clarity and transparency to the system.

This bill equalizes the taxable value and market value of our property as the Montana Constitution outlines. The citizens of Montana will be taxed on the actual appraised value of their home and won’t have to wait for lower property values in the Flathead to be reflected in our tax bills.

I’m also working on a bill to take the Montana income tax system from one of the most complex in the nation to one of the simpler and cleaner systems. When done, Montana will have lower tax rates with fewer loopholes, exemptions and credits.

Lower rates will apply to our personal and corporate rates, helping make Montana a more competitive environment to attract the jobs we need in the Flathead. As you complete your taxes this spring, you will see how difficult our state system is. Hopefully this is the last time you have to deal with such a level of complexity.

Sen. Llew Jones, R-Conrad, has an education funding bill, Senate Bill 175, which I strongly support. This bill funds our schools to meet today’s challenges. It includes $50 million from state oil and gas revenues for permanent property tax relief, while holding schools accountable. I like better funding for schools, improving our facilities and lowering taxes on everyday Montanans.

Campaign finance reform legislation is beginning to be introduced. Any changes must protect our rights of free speech and association. Voters need to know who is doing the speaking. Complete transparency and clear disclosure of all donors promoting a message will be key to cleaning up our system.

I am also excited about Gov. Steve Bullock’s focus to improve Montana’s bond rating to triple A. To earn a triple A rating, we have to create a stable tax climate, a structurally balanced budget with no games in it, and address our long-term obligations, like our pension issues. While there are some who like to play these games, we have to do what is right, and we have to do it now.

As you can see, these aren’t the issues of some special interest group. These are the issues I hear about around town, that the people of my district care about. These are the issues that I will continue to work hard to promote and deliver results for you.

Sen. Bruce Tutvedt, R-Kalispell, represents Senate District 3, which includes portions of rural Columbia Falls.