The bill revises the tax appeal procedures in Montana, specifically focusing on the informal review of residential property tax disputes at the Montana Tax Appeal Board. It amends Section 15-2-301 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to allow individuals appealing decisions regarding class four residential property to elect for an informal review process. This informal review, if chosen, results in a decision by the Montana board that is final and binding, with no option for reconsideration or appeal to district court.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for appeals, including the requirement for the county tax appeal board to notify the taxpayer and the property assessment division of the Department of Revenue of its decisions. It specifies that the Montana board must consider independent appraisals provided by taxpayers, particularly for residential property, and establishes the conditions under which these appraisals are presumed to establish assessed value. The bill also clarifies that the Montana board is not bound by common law and statutory rules of evidence in its proceedings and that its decisions are final unless modified by judicial review. The act will apply to tax appeal board proceedings filed on or after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 15-2-301