House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to lower school district property taxes related to transportation by increasing the on-schedule reimbursement rates for school transportation. The bill amends Section 20-10-141 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to adjust the reimbursement rates for various capacities of school buses. Specifically, the reimbursement rates for bus mileage are increased significantly, with rates changing from 50 cents to 85 cents for certain buses, and from 95 cents to $1.58 for buses with a capacity of not more than 49 passengers, among other adjustments for larger buses. Additionally, nonbus mileage reimbursement is also raised from 50 cents to 85 cents per mile.

The bill includes provisions for its effective date and applicability, stating that it will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to on-schedule reimbursements supporting school district transportation budgets for fiscal years beginning on or after that date. This legislative change is intended to provide financial relief to school districts by enhancing the funding available for transportation, thereby potentially reducing the burden on property taxes.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-10-141
HB0405_1(1): 20-10-141
HB0405_1(2): 20-10-141
HB0405_1(3): 20-10-141
HB0405_1(4): 20-10-141
HB0405_1(5): 20-10-141
HB0405_1(6): 20-10-141
HB0405_1: 20-10-141