Analysts say Montana budget looks OK for next year

State government is facing a $300 million-plus revenue cliff in the coming year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, legislative analysts told lawmakers Wednesday. Regardless, it’s looking like Montana’s reserve accounts will be adequate to stave off a full-blown budget crisis through at least 2021.

“While fiscal year 2021 looks manageable, the next biennium may be more of a challenge for legislators,” said fiscal analyst Susie Lindsay.