Initiative 172 (I-172) is a fiscally irresponsible ballot measure that will benefit one out-of-state corporation, take money away from our schools and universities, and raise property taxes for Montana homeowners and small businesses. I-172 sets a dangerous precedent of using the citizens’ ballot initiative to lower corporate taxes, and sets the stage to dismantle centrally-assessed taxation of statewide corporations operating in Montana.
If passed, I-172 will provide a tax cut for one telecommunications company. To offset the loss of millions in local property tax revenue, this initiative will result in tax increases for all other Montana property taxpayers or cuts to local services like K-12 schools, roads and law enforcement.
MBPC is a nonprofit organization focused on providing credible and timely research and analysis on budget, tax, and economic issues that impact low- and moderate-income Montana families.