Sales tax will be a primary subject of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research’s annual Economic Outlook Seminar this year.  The seminars, which will be held in nine Montana cities, will commence on January 2 in Helena.  It will be held on other dates in Great Falls, Missoula, Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Kalispell, Lewistown, and Havre. 

The research and history of sales tax in Montana in the context of today’s economic conditions and trends will be explored during the seminar, as well as the economic forecasts for communities around the state, along with a look at Montana’s important industry sectors.

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.  At least five bills were introduced in the 2025 legislative session having to do with sales tax.  As tourism increases 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 keynote speaker, Bob Story, executive director of the Montana Taxpayers Association, will be discussing at the 2026 Economic Outlook seminars.

Register for the event at the Bureau’s website.  A webcast will be provided for regions outside the nine cities.