Bills still waiting for veto or signature
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The legislature finished on day 87, three days short of the maximum 90. We were hoping to save more days, but as always, things get pretty complicated at the end. If we have to have a special session we have saved three days worth of costs.
Years ago there were lots of special sessions. Now they are rare. Our worries are fires and perhaps a reduction in the revenue, but that looks good so far.
Governor Bullock has vetoed 32 bills already. I was disappointed in his veto of the Insure Montana program, but our program didn’t fit with Obamacare. There are another 150 bills for the governor to veto, sign or just let become law without a signature.
We need to watch the Federal Highway Trust Fund. Looks like Congress will enact another short-term patch to keep the fund solvent for now. Here in Montana our 27.75 cents on every gallon of gas sold is not enough according to the Department of Transportation. There are more cars on the road but they are far more fuel efficient, so revenue does not increase.
In many areas around our state resort tax is an issue. Polson is looking at a local option sales tax, but there are many complications. Three small towns have this tax only in the summer months.
We also need to watch a $40 million Federal Development grant given to the Office of Public Education, $10 per year for four years. This grant is for birth to third graders in 16 high-need communities, eight of which are on Indian Reservations. The list includes local communities Ronan/Pablo and Head Start. This is not the Governor’s Early Edge $37 program, but it works much the same.
I will be serving on two interim committees. The Legislative Council is a statutory committee that provides leadership, direction, and foresight for the efficient operation and improvement of the Legislative Branch.
My second interim assignment, the Consumer Counsel, is required by the Montana Constitution. The Consumer Counsel represents public utility and transportation consumers before the Public Service Commission, state and federal courts, and administrative agencies in matters concerning public utility regulation.
This position fits well with one of my favorite tasks. I enjoy trying to help area residents with state problems. Sometimes there is nothing that can be done, but serving as your senator I often know the right people to contact.
Continue to contact me by email sen.janna.taylor@mt.gov and my cell phone is (406) 253-8766.
