Governor Proposes 4.7% Flat Income Tax Rate
Gianforte says the plan would cut the top rate and could reduce state revenues by $140 million over the 2029 biennium, fiscal analysts estimated.
- On Tuesday, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte launched the Flat Fair Montana Initiative at the State Capitol, proposing a 4.7% flat income tax rate to simplify the state's current two-tiered system and boost economic growth.
- Citing competition from other states, Gianforte noted that 15 states already use flat income tax rates. He argued the structure provides certainty to businesses and helps attract jobs, positioning Montana as economically disadvantaged without this change.
- An analysis by the Montana Budget and Policy Center estimates the proposal would cost the state $120 million annually. Researcher Rose Bender noted that '95% of the benefit' from tax cuts would go to the wealthiest 20% of households.
- Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Mark Thane, denounced the plan as a 'tax break for the wealthiest income earners.' Critics argue the policy ignores pressing needs like rising costs for working families and public services.
- Town hall meetings beginning in Helena on Sept. 22 will launch the public education campaign. Gianforte intends to push the flat-tax legislation during the 2027 session, calling it one of his top priorities for the upcoming Legislature.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Governor proposes 4.7% flat income tax rate
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Tuesday his administration will propose a 4.7% income tax rate, which drew immediate criticisms from Democrats. The state currently has a two-tiered, graduated income tax system that tops out at 5.4%. Many Montanans already have…
Gov. Greg Gianforte takes another swing at income tax rates
Gov. Greg Gianforte pushed for a flat state income tax rate at a press conference Sept. 8, months ahead of the 2027 legislative session, marking a continuation of his governorship-long push to lower income tax rates. Republican leadership in both the Montana Senate and House of Representatives have thrown support behind the proposal, but critics argue the cut would jeopardize state funding for public programs.
It’s Time for Montana to Move to a Flat Income Tax
Montana lawmakers will have an opportunity in 2027 to build on years of successful tax reform by taking the next step toward a more competitive tax code: adopting a flat 4.7% individual income tax. Since Governor Greg Gianforte took office, Montana has made significant progress reducing the income tax burden on families and businesses. In […]
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