Workers’ Comp reform passes both houses
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Disclosure brings transparency – I spoke in favor of Senate bill 284 – disclosure of Legislator’s health benefits. The Senate passed it with only three “no” votes. I’d also like to state that when I became your senator on that exciting day in January, I declined all health insurance and retirement benefits that were offered to me. I knew we would face difficult budget decisions, and I did not want to further burden the spending side of state government.
You’re wondering about program cuts – By the time you read this, the Senate will have debated HB 2 and amended line items as we saw fit. Two programs had already been restored: Big Sky Rx and Columbia Falls veteran’s home. Because other line items are still under scrutiny, I can’t report detail on what will go back for concurrence before the governor receives it. I hear your concerns about family planning, public health and adult education.
Education funding – Thank you for your emails and calls supporting SB 403. A lot of work went into this Senate proposal that boosts funds for education, equalizes some oil and gas income and includes measurable merit pay for teachers. It tied on third reading and we sent it back to committee for amendments.
Fairness restored on state land cabin leases – It was my pleasure to work with some of the leasees in my district, and speak on Tutvedt’s SB 409 to establish a fair rate for leases upon which constituents have built summer or year-round dwellings. DNRC escalated lease rates way above a fair price, leaving these folks little chance of recapping their investments in improvements, or continuing to lease their beloved cabin sites.
Property tax appraisals more realistic – we passed Reichner’s HB 333 which includes foreclosed property for comparable values.
Recycle bill passes both houses – I carried HB 594 through the Senate. In Mark Nelson’s words, “a win-win bill for everyone in Montana.” There’s an emerging business in pulverizing tires in Montana. Soon tires, glass, concrete and asphalt could find its way into highway projects instead of our landfills.
Grand finale of the week – Workers’ comp revision – Rep. Scott Reichner can catch up on his sleep now that his HB 334 passed both houses. Did you know Montana’s rates are highest in the nation? After decades of cost creep, this bill puts Montana back among neighbor states in terms of benefits and costs.
Medical marijuana – By the time you read this we will have acted on medical marijuana. I hope you can appreciate that this delay has allowed for sensible thought on the issue. Passions run hot, but decisions need to be made with cool and collected wisdom.
Local kids compete in world meet – Ronan’s high school robotics team under the guidance of Jesse Gray – Troy McMillan, Thane Tobol, Alex Killian, Bradly Findly, JT Probst, Hunter Shima and Tyler Sassaman have won the chance to compete in the world robotics finals in St. Louis in April. Our best wishes travel with you. You’ve made Montana proud.
www.carminemowbray.com, Carmine Mowbray, Senate District 6, P.O. Box 200500, Helena, Mont., 59620, carminemowbray@gmail.com, (406) 444-4795.
