In Session: Legislature kicks off 2019 session

Week one of the 66th session of the Montana Legislature kicked off on Monday, Jan 7. The immediate and looming issue – as the first order of business each session – was adopting the House Rules.

The Montana constitution establishes that the legislature has to adopt rules for our Chamber to operate during the next 90 days. As a member of the House Rules Committee, and as a member of the House chamber, I heard a lot of discussion about the rules, especially about the process of moving a bill through the House. If you have ever watched the proceedings in Helena you know that it is very difficult to get a bill passed and signed into law. That is as it should be. These laws affect all Montanans and should be thoughtful, considerate and sound. The other main topic of discussion was how committees are established. In the end we voted to adopt rules to enhance fairness and transparency. Now it's time to get to work.

As the Vice Chair of the House Tax Committee, and a member of the Education and Agriculture Committees, I regard the work of our Committees during hearings and testimonies as crucial to be able to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of proposed legislation. Each and every day, I look forward to serving on these committees to promote the best solutions for issues we face.

As a part of the Republican caucus, our action plan includes working toward protecting Montana's checkbook. We want to pay for the needs of the state with a balanced budget without increasing your taxes. Our households have to live within a budget. We should do the same with the state budget and checkbook. We also want to support prioritized, essential infrastructure. Our roads, bridges and water systems must be maintained and improved. All Montanans benefit from a long-term commitment to infrastructure across the state. Prioritization factors include public safety and health; appropriate design and longevity; economic considerations; and the environment.

It is an honor to be in the people's House every day to serve the voters of House District 80 and our state. I do not overlook the importance of this job, especially after visiting with so many of you during 2018.

Please feel free to contact me at [email protected], or by calling 444-4800. I hope you'll continue providing your input and testimony so the 2019 Legislature reflects your voice! Thanks again, and I'll keep you updated.