Governor Gianforte Discusses Support for Montana Agriculture

Attends Montana Agricultural Business Association and Montana Grain Elevator Association annual convention

Governor's Office

GREAT FALLS, Mont. - Governor Gianforte recently addressed members of the Montana Agricultural Business Association (MABA) and Montana Grain Elevator Association at their annual convention, discussing his support for Montana's agriculture industry and understanding of the challenges it faces.

"In Montana, agriculture drives our economy and sustains our rural communities," Gov. Gianforte said. "By cutting taxes, creating more job opportunities, and opening new markets, we are building a stronger future for our producers, workers, and families."

Gov. Gianforte (left) speaking with MABA President Tanner Hoversland (right) during the MABA annual convention in Great Falls

During the annual convention held in Great Falls, the governor joined MABA President Tanner Hoversland to discuss his priorities for continuing to reduce taxes in Montana including raising the exemption on the Business Equipment Tax, which applies to equipment such as tractors, combines, and machinery used by farms, ranches, and other Montana businesses.

Since taking office, Gov. Gianforte has raised the exemption threshold from $100,000 to $300,000, and again in 2023 to $1 million, providing relief to thousands of Montana businesses and producers. In 2025, the governor proposed raising the exemption to $3 million to provide additional relief and ultimately, the legislature did not advance the proposal.

"Montana producers and small businesses work hard to grow their operations and create jobs," Gov. Gianforte said. "Raising the Business Equipment Tax exemption helps them reinvest in their equipment, expand their businesses, and strengthen our rural communities. I look forward to making progress on this in the upcoming session."

The fireside chat also highlighted the 406 Jobs Initiative, Gov. Gianforte's plan to address workforce shortages and connect Montanans with in-demand jobs across industries including agriculture. The initiative is focused on increasing work-based learning and apprenticeships to grow a skilled workforce.

"The 406 Jobs Initiative helps ensure Montana has the skilled workforce our farmers and ranchers need," the governor said. "From field operations to processing and logistics, this program connects Montanans with good-paying jobs while supporting the backbone of our rural communities."

Gov. Gianforte also discussed Montana's trade priorities, including highlighting recent strategic missions to South Korea and Japan. He emphasized the importance of ports and infrastructure improvements in moving Montana products to global markets and highlighted examples of producers already accessing new customers overseas.

"Connecting Montana products to global markets is critical for our farmers and ranchers," the governor said. "By improving infrastructure and strengthening trade partnerships, we can grow Montana agriculture and create more opportunities for workers right here at home."

The annual convention brought together agricultural retailers, grain elevator operators, and other industry professionals from across Montana for education, policy discussions, and networking.

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