Dems Work To Move Main Street Ahead

Democratic Sens. Gillan and Van Dyk (both from Billings) today had hearings on their bills that seek to reduce taxes on those families and businesses that need it most.

Sen. Gillan’s bill, SB 392, would exempt nearly 99% of Montana businesses from the business equipment tax over the coming years. This will allow Main Street Montana businesses to grow, expand and invest in their future, and create new jobs in the state at the same time.

Sen. Van Dyk’s bill would give every Montana homeowner a $150 tax credit over the next two years. This will put money directly in the pockets of Montana families and help Montana’s economy continue to improve.

One particularly notable thing about these measures is they are paid for in the Governor’s budget. This provides a stark contrast with Republicans who have sought to slash the Governor’s budget in a way that benefits wealthy out-of-state businesses.

Under the Republican tax plans, the the four largest recipients of tax cuts–all of which are over $4.4 million–are businesses based in other states or other countries. How does this grow Montana’s economy?

Republicans should not only the bills of Sen. Gillan and Sen. Van Dyk, they should also learn from their example and pursue legislation that will move Montana’s economy forward, rather than boosting the bottom line of companies halfway around the globe at the expense of Montanans.