MT HB905

Property owners may apply for property tax refunds equal to documented expenses incurred to mitigate effects of local government policies that decline to enforce laws against illegal camping, public obstruction, loitering, panhandling, public urination/defecation, public alcohol consumption, or illegal drug use

Refunds are capped at the amount of property taxes paid to the city or county in the prior tax year, with excess amounts eligible for claims in subsequent years

Local governments have 30 days to accept or reject refund applications; if rejected, property owners may challenge in district court where the government bears the burden of proving its actions are lawful and prevailing property owners receive attorney fees

Refunds are paid from the state general fund, then withheld from the local government's entitlement share payment to reimburse the state

Property owners may apply once per tax year and may continue receiving refunds in subsequent years if the policy or nuisance persists