Bart Bruns Sales Director | NFIB Montana
Bart Bruns Sales Director | NFIB Montana
Week two of the legislative session concluded amid ongoing turmoil, echoing the disarray that marked its commencement. The absence of resolutions to issues revealed last Friday suggests continued unrest in the Senate. Notably, GOP leaders are investigating a senator's use of state funds.
In other developments, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) expressed support for a House Bill aimed at reducing unemployment insurance benefits from 24 weeks to 20 weeks. Sponsored by Representative Kerri Seekins-Crowe, the bill is under consideration by the House Business Committee. A related proposal seeks to lower unemployment insurance rates for Montana businesses.
Representative Julie Darling has introduced a bill to simplify compliance with the Clean Air Act for small businesses. The bill proposes assigning a staff member from the Department of Environmental Quality to assist businesses directly. The legislation passed unanimously in committee after NFIB monitored its hearing.
In another matter, NFIB opposed House Bill 160, which challenges state regulation over local container laws. Despite opposition, a ruling by the Montana Supreme Court upheld existing state law.
Looking ahead, several tax-related bills are on the agenda. The House Taxation Committee will review House Bill 155 and House Bill 213, both addressing property tax revisions. Additionally, Representative Llew Jones sponsors House Bill 231—the governor’s property tax proposal—which includes adjustments for residential and commercial properties based on value thresholds.
The House Business and Labor Committee will evaluate two bills supported by NFIB: House Bill 210 aims to create lower unemployment insurance premiums; and House Bill 197 intends to expedite processes for returning injured workers to employment.
NFIB continues monitoring various proposals including those on minimum wage increases, polystyrene container bans, tort reform, paid sick leave requirements, workers' compensation clarifications, and retail theft penalties.
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