Governor Greg Gianforte recently addressed the Montana Agricultural Business Association and the Montana Grain Elevator Association at their annual convention in Great Falls. During his speech, he emphasized his commitment to supporting Montana’s agriculture industry by reducing taxes, creating job opportunities, and opening new markets. “In Montana, agriculture drives our economy and sustains our rural communities,” Gianforte said.
At the event, Governor Gianforte discussed with MABA President Tanner Hoversland his plans to continue reducing taxes in the state. He highlighted efforts to raise the exemption on the Business Equipment Tax, which affects equipment used by farms and ranches. Since taking office, Gianforte has increased this exemption from $100,000 to $1 million. Although a proposal to further raise it to $3 million in 2025 was not advanced by the legislature, he remains optimistic about future progress. “Raising the Business Equipment Tax exemption helps them reinvest in their equipment, expand their businesses, and strengthen our rural communities,” he said.
The governor also introduced the 406 Jobs Initiative aimed at addressing workforce shortages across various industries including agriculture. This initiative focuses on work-based learning and apprenticeships to develop a skilled workforce. “The 406 Jobs Initiative helps ensure Montana has the skilled workforce our farmers and ranchers need,” Gianforte explained.
Additionally, trade priorities were discussed with an emphasis on recent missions to South Korea and Japan. These missions aim to improve infrastructure and strengthen trade partnerships for better access to global markets for Montana products. “Connecting Montana products to global markets is critical for our farmers and ranchers,” Gianforte remarked.
The convention served as a platform for agricultural retailers, grain elevator operators, and other professionals from across Montana to engage in education, policy discussions, and networking opportunities.
