Montana is one of five states without a general sales tax. Voters resoundingly defeated sales tax proposals in 1993 and 1971, and the idea still polls poorly today.

It’s been over 30 years since Montana voters have weighed in on sales tax, and interest in putting it on the ballot again is rising. As tourism and service sectors grow – and property taxes become more unpopular – some Montanans believe it’s time to reconsider a sales tax.

How would a sales tax affect Montana’s economy? How much revenue could it generate, and could it meaningfully reduce property taxes? Could it be designed to target tourists and reduce the impact on local residents?

That’s exactly what BBER economists and our keynote speaker, Bob Story, executive director of the Montana Taxpayers Association, will be discussing at our 2026 Economic Outlook Seminars being held around the state in January – March.

Join us to hear more about the research and history of the sales tax in Montana in the context of today’s economic conditions and trends. As always, we’ll present the economic forecasts for communities around the state, along with a look at Montana’s important industry sectors.