Don't Be Fooled: Tourism Already Gives You a Tax Break

I just got back from the Travel Industry Rotunda Day at the Montana State Capitol in Helena on Monday, January 13th, where we were talking about something that affects all of us here in Montana: SB 90. This bill promises property tax relief, but don’t be fooled—it comes at a cost we can’t afford.

Here’s the deal: Tourism is one of Montana’s biggest moneymakers. Every year, visitors bring in $5.45 billion, support over 66,000 jobs, and contribute $414 million in state and local taxes. That’s a big deal, especially when you realize it saves the average Montana household $930 a year in taxes.

Now, SB 90 wants to take our limited funds from the bed tax—a key part of what funds tourism promotion—and redirect some or all of it for temporary property tax relief. Sounds good on the surface, right? But here’s the problem: Without that funding, fewer visitors come to Montana. That means less money for local businesses, fewer jobs, and ultimately, less tax revenue for everyone.

This isn’t just speculation. Other states, like Colorado, have tried this. When they cut tourism funding, they lost 30% of their visitor market and billions in revenue—and it took nearly a decade to recover. Montana can’t afford to make the same mistake.

Want to help? It’s easy!

• Contact Your Legislators: Go to legmt.gov to find yours. If you’re in our area, reach out to:

- Senator Becky Beard (R), SD 38 Phone 406-479-3048 Email Becky.Beard@legmt.gov

- Senator Tony Tezak (R), SD 35 Phone 406-842-5115 Email Tony.Tezak@legmt.gov

- Representative Marta Bertoglio (R), HD 75 Phone 406-282-1408 Email Marta.Bertoglio@legmt.gov

- Representative Ken Walsh (R), HD 69 Phone 406-596-0418 Email Kenneth.Walsh@legmt.gov

Here’s a Quick Message You Can Use:

“Hi, I’m [Your Name], and I live in [Your Town]. I’m asking you to oppose SB 90. Tourism is already saving Montana households $930 a year in taxes, and cutting bed tax funding will hurt local businesses and jobs. Let’s not gamble with something that’s working. Thank you for listening!”

For more information, you can visit tourismmattersmt.org. Tourism works for Montana, and it works for us. Let’s keep it that way!