Montanans are feeling the weight of rapidly rising property taxes, especially in Gallatin County, which has seen some of the highest increases in the state. This isn't just a number on a bill; it's a significant burden on families, homeowners, and especially seniors on fixed incomes who are at risk of being taxed out of their homes. Marla understands how crucial it is to protect our community from these spikes. That's why she will advocate to restore the property appraisal cycle to every six years, rather than the current two, and increase the Homestead Exemption to reflect today's property values. .Additionally, Marla will work to implement caps on property tax rates to ensure seniors and others on fixed incomes are not priced out of their homes.
Marla believes it's also vital to educate citizens about how property taxes are used, with most funding going to local services like schools, fire departments and law enforcement, while state services like universities and prisons are funded by state income tax. She will encourage all levels of government to operate under a balanced budget, uphold fiscal responsibility, and find ways to lower taxes where possible.
Montana, like many parts of the nation, is facing the impact of illegal immigration on our housing, education, and healthcare systems, as well as increased crime rates in communities like Gallatin County. The rise in drug and human trafficking must be stopped to protect our families and our way of life. Marla recognizes the importance of maintaining a secure community and is committed to taking action. She will support legislation allowing the Governor to remove illegal immigrants from Montana, similar to measures passed in other states. Furthermore, she will work with the Attorney General's office to uphold state and federal laws that are currently undermined, ensuring that Montana remains a safe and secure place for all its residents.
Property rights are fundamental to our freedom and prosperity, rooted deeply in the 5th and 14th Amendments of the Constitution. Marla knows that these rights, whether it's the right to possess, control, exclude, enjoy, or dispose of property, are critical to maintaining our individual freedoms and ensuring our communities thrive. She is committed to defending these rights and believes they should always be protected against any threat that seeks to diminish them.
Our current economic situation, marked by high inflation, soaring interest rates, and a depressed market, is impacting everyone, especially young people in Gallatin County who are finding it increasingly difficult to pursue the dream of home ownership . Marla understands these struggles and believes the government must be held accountable. She will fight to ensure that state and local governments work for the people, reducing unnecessary regulation and resisting the expansion of government that only leads to more costs and less freedom. Marla's vision is a Montana with less government interference and more economic opportunity for all.
Marla is deeply committed to protecting the freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. She understands that freedom of speech, religion, and assembly are the cornerstones of our democracy and must be defended against any efforts to undermine them. Marla will work to ensure that no Montanan is ever censored or silenced based on their political beliefs or religious convictions. She will stand firm in safeguarding these essential rights for every citizen.
The right to keep and bear arms is fundamental to our Constitution and our way of life. Marla is a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment and will vigorously defend the rights of law-abiding citizens to own firearms for self-defense and the protection of their property and rights. She understands that this is not just about guns; it's about ensuring we all have the ability to protect our families and freedoms. Marla will stand firm in protecting this critical constitutional right.
By electing Marla Davis, you are choosing a candidate who not only understands these critical issues but also offers real solutions to address them, ensuring a safer, more prosperous Montana for all.