Starting the second half in Helena
Scott Reichner | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 15 years, 10 months AGO
At the halfway point of every legislative session, there comes a point that's known in Montana politics as "transmittal." It means that the bills that started in the House of Representatives are "transmitted" to the Senate for them to vote on. Likewise, the bills from the Senate come over to us in the House.
It's also the occasion of the only break we take during a process that normally requires 12 hour days during the week and Saturday sessions as well.
Some people use the weekend to take a short vacation. It's more common to go home, though. Legislators like to spend time meeting with as many constituents as possible, to let folks know what we've been doing. It's also a great opportunity to hear what the people are pleased with so far, and what they would like to see us doing differently.
Now that transmittal is over, it's time for work to begin in earnest on the budget. Not only is the appropriations committee working on the bill, but the whole House of Representatives will be holding floor sessions dedicated to House Bill 2.
HB 2 is traditionally designated the state's budget bill. It always starts in the House, and then goes to the Senate. Because it's such an important part of what we do, it has its own "transmittal" date, to give us extra time. As the House debates the budget, I look forward to casting votes that help Montana's government live within its means.
I hope that you'll take the time to follow the session at http://www.rotundareport.com. Also please do not hesitate to contact me at 253-3929 or by e-mail at sreichner@centurytel.net.
ARTICLES BY SCOTT REICHNER
Reichner's Review: Legislative update
The 63rd Legislative session for the State of Montana is underway! As I enter my third term at the Capital I am anxious to serve and contribute to our great state.
Likes Holmquist
Water quality is an issue we are all concerned with in Flathead County, particularly here in Bigfork. What many Bigfork residents may not know is that Pam Holmquist has been an active steward on water-quality issues for decades. Pam’s business relies on the presence of clean water for recreation, and she has served on the Evergreen Water and Sewer Board for 15 years. When your livelihood relies on water quality, you have a vested interest in preserving it.
Seeking solutions to the property tax dilemma
For the past few months, I have been working diligently on the property reappraisal problem. In conjunction with the other legislators in the area, we have hosted several town hall meetings where we were able to listen to people from all over Flathead and Lake counties about their concerns with the inequity in property taxation. I have also had dozens of discussions with property owners along with many discussions with the local property tax assessor's office. We have paid close attention to your suggestions for solutions.