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Committee rejects HB 329, which would create broad tax exemptions for certain manufacturers; bill fails 8-13 then is tabled
Summary
House Bill 329, which would have exempted certain manufacturers from multiple taxes, failed in the House Taxation Committee on a roll-call vote (8-13). Members raised concerns about the lack of a sunset and the absence of contributions to local services; the committee subsequently tabled the bill.
The House Taxation Committee voted against House Bill 329 on a roll-call vote, 8 ayes to 13 nays, and then approved a motion to table the bill by voice vote with proxies recorded.
Representative Thain raised concerns that the bill "exempts the manufacturers from virtually every tax that might be applied," and noted that the program had previously been in effect for about a decade without recruiting the targeted manufacturers to Montana; he said he would vote no. Representative Konauer argued the bill would allow firms to operate without paying local property taxes and other levies that fund schools, fire and police, and asked how communities would be compensated.
Several members also expressed concern that the bill contains no sunset provision; Representative Valverum cited the lack of a sunset as a reason for opposition. Representative Marler disclosed a personal connection to a related business activity but voted no. After the roll call the committee moved to table the measure; proxies and voice votes were recorded as supporting tabling (proxies indicated 21 aye, 0 nay).
Votes at a glance: House Bill 329 — failed in committee 8 aye, 13 nay; motion to table passed by voice/proxy and bill was tabled.
