Internet Explorer 11 is not supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

Montana Ends Special Session With a Budget Deal

A special session of the Montana Legislature called to address a budget shortfall adjourned early Thursday morning with a deal that leaves all parties less than satisfied but pleased something was negotiated.

A special session of the Montana Legislature called to address a budget shortfall adjourned early Thursday morning with a deal that leaves all parties less than satisfied but pleased something was negotiated.

Legislators came to Helena at the start of the week for a fast and furious three days, called back by Gov. Steve Bullock to find ways to patch an anticipated $227 million hole in the state budget caused by lower-than-projected revenues and a $75 million fire bill after one of the worse fire seasons in state history.

Before calling the special session, Bullock proposed splitting the budget shortfall into thirds, with $76 million in cuts to state agencies made by the governor, $75 million in fund transfers and other ways to tap money and $75 million in temporary tax increases.

Caroline Cournoyer is GOVERNING's senior web editor.
Special Projects