Governor Gianforte Discusses Remaining Legislative Priorities

Governor Gianforte Discusses Remaining Legislative Priorities

• April 24 2025

HELENA, Mont. - Holding a press conference at the State Capitol, Governor Greg Gianforte today discussed the priorities that remain on Montanans' to-do list ahead of the final days of the legislative session.

"In the last election, Montanans were very clear on their priorities - they sent us here with a to-do list and they expect us to get it done," Gov. Gianforte said. "Thankfully, this week, the legislature is making progress on our remaining priorities and I'm hopeful that in these last few days of the session, we can mark them off."

Gov. Gianforte speaking during a press conference at the State Capitol

Standing next to a check list of agenda items, the governor provided an update on the legislature's progress on increasing starting teacher pay and cutting income taxes.

In his budget, the governor invested a historic $100 million to raise teacher pay, with a focus on educators who are just starting their careers. The STARS Act builds on the success of the TEACH Act which the governor introduced in his first week in office to provide incentives to school districts to increase starting teacher pay.

Praising the progress of the legislation yesterday during a press conference in Kalispell, the governor indicated his intention to sign the bill when it makes it to his desk.

Discussing his priority for income tax relief, Gov. Gianforte spoke to the progress of on proposal, House Bill 337, saying, "On Tuesday, the Senate passed Speaker Ler's House Bill 337. House Bill 337 reduces the top income tax rate and increases the Earned Income Tax Credit from 10% to 20%, providing an income tax cut to Montanans at every income level."

In his budget, the governor proposed the largest income tax cut in state history, reducing the income tax rate most Montanans pay from 5.9% to 4.9%.

Concluding the press conference, the governor said, "I share the priorities of the Montanans who sent us here to address the problems facing them and their families. Together, I know we can get property taxes done, enact a fiscally responsible and balanced budget, and reform our judiciary."

Adding, "I'm ready to check these other items off our to-do list."

Watch the press conference here.

###