In final week of Legislature, lawmakers pass school repair fund, Real ID bill and trimmed 'Ferarri tax'

HELENA -- One of the final bills the Montana Legislature passed before adjourning would create a special state fund for major public school repairs.

Senate Bill 307 would, among other things, allow school districts to temporarily raise property taxes -- without putting it on a ballot -- in order to meet a state match for these repairs.

The bill had already passed the Legislature, but the governor returned it to the House with a with a different reporting date.

“It’s a good way to get local participation in this quality schools program,” said Rep. Rob Cook, R-Conrad during the House discussion...