What happens when tax breaks meant for working farms end up sheltering million-dollar homes? That’s the question at the heart of two Montana bills that just failed in the Legislature. The measures aimed to close loopholes that allow luxury properties—some with little or no real agricultural activity—to claim generous ag tax status. Supporters called it a step toward fairness. Opponents called it a tax hike. With both bills now dead, Montana’s tax code—tilted toward those with acreage and advantage—remains unchanged.
Why does this matter in North Dakota? While we don’t have the same degree of “Yellowstone” wealth as Montana, we do have a growing group of property tax exemptions. Perhaps if we were serious about lowering the rates for everyone, we’d take a serious look at who’s already paying less or none at all.
