Bill prohibiting texting and driving bill voted down in Senate
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Tort Reform begins – I carried HB 531 which passed in the Senate. It’s the first of seven tort reform bills coming our way from the House. These bills will improve general civil liability parameters to reduce legal defense costs. You’ll quickly grasp its positive effect on the medical profession and our health care costs. Simply put, in the event of a negligence suit, this new statute will reduce the possibility of a doctor making an early settlement, then being brought into a trial against the hospital, which likely is the doctor’s employer.
Texting while driving – We voted down a bill that would have prohibited texting while driving. I am very concerned for its escalating effect on our safety. I voted for the bill in our committee to bring it to the Senate floor for wider debate. New points were raised, and new unintended consequences came up. By the time the vote was called, I’d decided it would be too difficult to enforce; and the temptation to text and be evasive about it while driving creates a worse hazard. If we are responsible and drive sensibly, and do not drive while distracted we can reduce hazards. Otherwise, local or federal regulations will be imposed or Montana’s next legislative session could make new laws.
Improved mobility – We passed a bill allowing people with disabilities to be able to drive electric vehicles like golf carts on low-speed public roads. This will improve their mobility and access within their communities. I’m sure you’ve come across someone in a motorized wheelchair in the rain or snow, with nothing more than a little orange flag for visibility. Now these folks can go about their business safer and more comfortably in town traffic regardless of weather.
Family-friendly options for labor – We passed a family-friendly law strongly supported by labor to allow longer than 8-hour shifts when both employee and employer agree. Brought to us by the mineral and cement industry, this permits the option of working four 10-hour days; or 12-hour shifts with more days off during a week. Now workers can have schedules that allow for longer durations home.
The lights are coming back on in Montana - We passed SB 317, after some amendments, which facilitates permitting for resource development without removing public or environmental review. I spoke on the floor for this bill which passed along party lines. If the House follows our lead and the governor signs it, we should start realizing new investment in Montana and more family-wage jobs. In sponsor Sen. Vincent's words, "industry is starting to say ‘the lights are coming back on in Montana.’"
Thank you for your input in my daily polls on my website. I’m getting the word that you encourage business, are concerned about the publicized cuts to social programs and you want sensible regulation of medical marijuana. I will continue to post timely questions. I encourage your response. Carmine Mowbray, Senate District 6, P.O. Box 200500, Helena, Mont. 59620
carminemowbray@gmail.com, (406) 444-4795, www.carminemowbray.com
