Story By: Cody Ross, News Producer
HELENA, Mont. — As Montana enters the height of signature-gathering season, several high-stakes initiatives are seeking a place on the 2026 ballot, each with the potential to reshape the state’s economic and political landscape.
From proposed limits on property taxes to restrictions on political activity by businesses and organizations, here is a look at key measures under development.
Property Tax Relief: CI-129 and CI-130
With property valuations rising across the state, two constitutional initiatives aim to provide long-term predictability for property owners.
Backed by advocates including Bob Story and the Montana Taxpayers Association, the measures would place a cap on annual increases in assessed property values. CI-129 would limit increases to 2% for primary residences, while CI-130 would apply the same cap to all real property statewide.
While the proposals have gained support among taxpayers seeking relief, policy experts have raised concerns about potential impacts on public funding. In a recent interview, Story said the state must also address school funding disparities, warning that “the state’s going to have to do something or they’ll get sued again and probably lose and end up spending more money after a big lawsuit anyhow.”
I-194: “The Montana Plan”
Another proposed measure, I-194, has drawn significant attention for its broad scope.
The initiative would prohibit most legal entities, including corporations, nonprofits, trade associations and partnerships, from supporting or opposing ballot measures, candidates or political parties. Political participation would be limited to individuals, certain political committees, and state and local governments.
The proposal also includes strict penalties. Businesses or organizations found in violation could lose the ability to operate in Montana.
The Montana Taxpayers Association and other industry groups argue the measure would limit the ability of businesses to defend their interests. They say industries such as agriculture or mining could be prevented from responding to ballot initiatives that directly affect their operations.
What’s Next
Supporters of the initiatives must meet signature requirements across Montana’s legislative districts for the measures to qualify for the 2026 ballot.
At the same time, organizations including the Montana School Boards Association are expected to weigh in on how property tax caps could affect local education funding.
Northern Ag Network will continue to track signature counts and potential legal challenges as the process moves forward
