Legislative Halfway Report
Time is flying by and we have now reached the halfway point of the 61st legislature, having heard a wealth of great legislation. I am continually optimistic for both Montana and Carbon County.
While the entire nation is feeling economically squeezed, Montana is in much better financial shape than most other states and our state budget (HB 2) is still on track. I am happy to report that we are living within our means. House Democrats and Republicans are working together to make sure we end up with some money left over to cushion our budget for the next biennium. While we are still able to protect critical programs, we are not adding significant new spending during these uncertain economic times. We are moving ahead in a collective effort to keep Montana going forward.
Montana Growth Through Agriculture
I am proud to report that HB 48, the “Growth Through Agriculture Act” passed through the House in February. As the sponsor of HB 48, my goal was to improve upon the existing legislation through increased oversight and a stronger ability to track the success of those participating in the program. The Growth Through Agriculture Program helps agricultural communities to grow business, especially with value added agricultural products. HB 48 provides directives for the Department of Agriculture to follow through on the improvements mentioned above, allowing the DOA the authority to track success and provide for greater accountability from those who seek to participate.
Working for Children’s Health Insurance
In November, Montana voters went to the polls and overwhelmingly passed I-155, and initiative to cover all Montana children with health insurance. I-155 passed in all 56 counties, and 69% of voters in HD 59 supported the initiative. HB 157 sponsored by Rep. Chuck Hunter (D – Helena) implements the funding for I-155. This bill narrowly passed the House with the strong support of every Democrat. However it recently failed to pass the Joint Appropriations Health and Human Service Subcommittee on a 4 – 4 tie vote. All 4 Republicans on the committee voted no. This is unconscionable to me. Montana voters were very clear in their intentions and I will continue to fight for this bill and uphold our end of the deal.
HB 15 – Funding for Public Education
Funding for public education is a priority of mine, as investments in children are investments in the future of Montana. HB 15 will help get public education funding back on track here in Montana. By providing a 3% increase in each year of the 2011 biennium in basic entitlement funding, HB 15 is a step in the right direction, bringing us closer to ensuring public education gets the funding it rightfully deserves.
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