HELENA, Mont. (AP) - The Montana House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at making it harder for state lawmakers to raise taxes.
Montana Public Radio reports the bill, which passed on a 53-46 vote Monday, requires a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to increase and create new taxes.
Republican Rep. Forrest Mandeville of Columbus says the higher threshold would encourage bipartisanship and better policy before lawmaker increase taxes or fees.
Democratic Rep. Zach Brown of Bozeman argued it would make it harder to pass a constitutionally required balanced budget if there is strong disagreement over tax proposals. He argued the bill amounts to lawmakers limiting their own authority.
The bill now goes to the Senate for a committee hearing.
Copyright © 2023 The Washington Times, LLC.
