The bill amends Section 15-6-135 of the Montana Code Annotated to revise the definition of Class Five property to include specific telecommunications property. The new language expands the classification to encompass property owned by entities that provide telecommunications services not only to rural areas but also to cities and towns with a population of 1,200 permanent residents or less, and those that operate in no more than three counties. This change aims to ensure that more telecommunications infrastructure is recognized under Class Five property for tax purposes.

Additionally, the bill establishes an immediate effective date and retroactive applicability for property tax years beginning after December 31, 2024. This means that the revised classification will apply to property taxes assessed in the future, potentially impacting the tax obligations of telecommunications providers in Montana. The bill also includes provisions for the exemption of certain air and water pollution control and carbon capture equipment, as well as specific conditions for the taxation of fiber optic and coaxial cable installations.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 15-6-135
SB0550_1(1): 15-6-135
SB0550_1(2): 15-6-135
SB0550_1(3): 15-6-135
SB0550_1(4): 15-6-135
SB0550_1: 15-6-135
SB0550_X(1): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(2): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(3): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(4): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(5): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(6): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(7): 15-6-135
SB0550_X(8): 15-6-135
SB0550_X: 15-6-135