Big Sky Times

State Director Ronda Wiggers provided an update from Helena on the legislative activities concerning small businesses for the week ending April 21. The Montana Legislature is in its final and most challenging weeks, with several bills in their last procedural stages. Many of these bills are intertwined with ongoing budget negotiations.

Senate Bill 95, a retail theft bill supported by Wiggers, appears to be progressing but remains dependent on the Department of Corrections' budget decision. Other bills are similarly stalled as they await resolution on broader policy or budget issues. Wiggers emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant to ensure that unfavorable bills remain tabled.

The current situation means there is minimal legislative action until a state budget agreement is reached. Montana's citizen legislature meets every other year for 90 days, and all involved parties are eager to conclude this session. As work accumulates at home, the pressure from budget negotiations has led to rejections of many proposals and increased tensions.

House Bill 2 transitioned from the House to the Senate with expectations to conclude around April 21. However, after Senate Finance & Claims Committee's review, completion was anticipated by April 28. Yet disagreements over unresolved budget items suggest that proceedings may extend until May 6, the session's final day.

Wiggers promised a comprehensive report post-session detailing successful legislation efforts and significant developments affecting members' daily activities.

For those interested in tracking legislative progress in real time, Wiggers provided a link to the NFIB Legislative Preference list.