Great Falls, Montana – Governor Greg Gianforte recently addressed key leaders and members of the Montana Agricultural Business Association (MABA) and the Montana Grain Elevator Association during their annual convention in Great Falls, where he highlighted his administration’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Montana’s agriculture industry.
Supporting Rural Communities Through Tax Relief
“In Montana, agriculture drives our economy and sustains our rural communities,” Gov. Gianforte told the audience. “By cutting taxes, creating more job opportunities, and opening new markets, we are building a stronger future for our producers, workers, and families.”
One of the central points of discussion was the Business Equipment Tax—a tax that affects agricultural producers by applying to essential farm equipment such as tractors, combines, and machinery. Governor Gianforte, joined by MABA President Tanner Hoversland, emphasized the importance of providing tax relief to the hardworking businesses that fuel Montana’s economy.
Since taking office, Gianforte has raised the Business Equipment Tax exemption threshold from $100,000 to $300,000, and again in 2023 to $1 million, easing the burden for thousands of Montana farms and small businesses. In 2025, he proposed another increase to $3 million, but the measure did not pass the legislature.
Check also: New task force aims to break down barriers and help more Montanans enter the workforce
“Montana producers and small businesses work hard to grow their operations and create jobs,” the governor 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.”
Addressing Workforce Needs Through the 406 Jobs Initiative
Workforce development was also a key topic. Governor Gianforte highlighted his 406 Jobs Initiative, an effort designed to connect Montanans with in-demand jobs in vital industries like agriculture. The program promotes work-based learning opportunities such as apprenticeships and field training to ensure producers have access to the skilled labor they need.
“The 406 Jobs Initiative helps ensure Montana has the skilled workforce our farmers and ranchers need,” he said. “From field operations to processing and logistics, this program connects Montanans with good-paying jobs while supporting the backbone of our rural communities.”
Opening International Markets for Montana Products
In addition to tax reform and workforce development, the governor emphasized the need for improved access to global markets. He referenced recent trade missions to South Korea and Japan, noting that international interest in Montana’s agricultural products is growing. He stressed the importance of ports and infrastructure to efficiently move goods abroad.
Check also: Repeat offender from Poplar gets federal prison sentence for violent domestic assault
“Connecting Montana products to global markets is critical for our farmers and ranchers,” Gov. Gianforte said. “By improving infrastructure and strengthening trade partnerships, we can grow Montana agriculture and create more opportunities for workers right here at home.”
Bringing the Industry Together
The annual convention served as a valuable forum for agricultural professionals, including retailers, grain elevator operators, and policymakers, to exchange ideas, explore legislative priorities, and collaborate on the future of agriculture in Montana.
Governor Gianforte’s remarks underscored a continued emphasis on economic growth, tax relief, job training, and international trade access—key pillars he says are essential to securing a prosperous future for Montana’s agriculture sector.
