MT SB253

Student scholarship organizations must apply for certification from the Department of Revenue before accepting tax credit-eligible donations, with certification valid for up to 2 tax years and department decisions required within 60 days of application

Organizations must allocate at least 90% of annual tax credit-eligible donations to scholarships, with all such donations paid out within 3 calendar years following receipt

Scholarships cannot be limited to a single education provider; parents and guardians must have the right to choose any qualified education provider for their eligible student (Montana residents ages 5-18)

Organizations must maintain public websites displaying scholarship application processes, lists of qualified education providers receiving scholarships, and language affirming parental choice of providers

Appropriates $206,000 from the general fund to the Department of Revenue for implementation, with substantive provisions effective October 1, 2025