Debate over raising turnout and approval thresholds for local levies pits fairness arguments against local officials' warning

Senator Greg Hertz introduced Senate Bill 205 as a companion to his proposal on mill‑levy sunsets, saying the bill is intended to increase voter turnout and make levy approvals reflect broader participation. Under the draft language, higher turnout would lower approval thresholds: at 50% or greater turnout a simple majority would suffice; between 40–50% a 60% supermajority would be required; below 40% the measure would fail.

Supporters told the committee the change is a fairness measure that would “push proponents of mill levies to educate the electorate and urge them to get out the vote.” Daniel Cox of the Montana Association of Realtors urged passage, framing the bill as “a matter of…