EBS STAFF
In November, Gallatin County residents received a property tax bill that reflected a reduction in mills for the State School Equalization Funds, according to a March 25 release from Gallatin County. The Montana Department of Revenue previously determined that for 2023, 77.9 mills would be sufficient for the school equalization fund, instead of the regular 95 mills.
However, a Montana Supreme Court ruling has reinstated the full 95 mill collection by the DOR, and Gallatin County will see that change in their second-half tax bills in coming weeks. The change was spurred by Gov. Greg Gianforte’s lawsuit against Missoula County, arguing that the state has authority to require full collection of the school tax, as reported by Montana Free Press.
The Gallatin County treasurer’s office mailed out the second-half tax bills on Friday, March 22.
“Property owners should disregard the second-half payment due on original bills, sent late last year, and pay the amount that comes with the amended bills instead. Do not pay both,” the release stated.
Those who paid taxes in full in December will still need to pay the indicated amount. The tax collections mandated by the Governor’s office will be sent to the State of Montana and are due on May 31.
Property owners can also view amended bills online.
