Public opinion sought on contentious legislative issues
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There are many controversial issues coming up. I would like your opinion on a few of them. My contact information is at the bottom.
1. Medical marijuana is a problem. Should it be repealed? I have received many requests to do this. Should we make the rules stronger, like more doctor visits, only five patients per caregiver, or tax marijuana like alcohol?
2. Should we raise the minimum drop-out age from 16 to 18? I questioned six of our pages last week and they had very interesting comments. Students who do not want to be in school are very disruptive. Junior and senior year in high school is full of information that students need. Schools could get more money with more students.
3. Should Montana join the other states in the lawsuit against the National Patient Protection and Affordability Act, more commonly known as Obamacare? Should we be forced to have insurance and the coverage required by the Federal government?
4. The MATL transmission line has already been permitted, but 26 farmer/ranchers are in court now. They say that the eminent domain law is being used to benefit a for-profit power line and that is not public need. Over one hundred landowners have settled and the line will really bring in taxes and help Montana power generators.
As I have often said, most of the decisions we make are not controversial, but some are. I do not believe in larger government, nor in more taxes. As many of us knew, the stimulus money that started programs and filled in the last budget is causing problems now.
Article VIII, Section 9 of our Constitution reads “Appropriations by the legislature shall not exceed anticipated revenue.” I am worried that the transfers in the governor’s budget, the use of one-time-only money, and lowering the current ending fund balance will cause problems in the future.
You can follow much of what we do here in Helena. On cable in Ronan and Polson channel 97 and in Kalispell and Lakeside channel 67. On the internet you can watch live and follow bills at www.leg.mt.gov.
The best way to leave me a message is (406) 444-4800. My cell number is (406) 253-8766 and my office is (406) 444-1507. Email jannataylor@montana.com. I never forget that I work for you.
