Big Sky Times

The Montana legislative session is progressing into its third week, with a sense of normalcy returning after an initially chaotic start. State Director Ronda Wiggers reports that the Senate has begun a regular hearing schedule and is working to catch up.

Key developments include House Bill 131, sponsored by Rep. Kerri Seekins-Crowe, which proposes reducing unemployment benefits from 24 weeks to 20 weeks. The bill awaits committee action but is expected to advance for full debate soon.

House Bill 64, aimed at simplifying compliance with the Clean Air Act for small businesses, passed the House overwhelmingly. Sponsored by Rep. Julie Darling, it received a 99-1 vote in favor.

Rep. Ed Stafman's House Bill 160, which sought to repeal regulations on auxiliary containers used by local governments, was tabled in committee following opposition from NFIB (National Federation of Independent Business), who argued for statewide conformity.

House Bill 210, introduced by Rep. Steve Fitzpatrick, aims to create a lower tier of unemployment insurance premiums and received support from NFIB during its committee discussion.

Another significant proposal is House Bill 197 by Rep. Anthony Nicastro, intended to streamline the process for injured workers returning to work after recovery. This bill also gained NFIB's backing.

In other legislative matters, Gov. Greg Gianforte's property tax reform proposal under House Bill 231 seeks to adjust tax rates based on property values and has garnered attention and support from NFIB as part of a task force effort.

Senate Bill 109 focuses on expanding the definition of treating physicians within workers' compensation laws to include physical therapists.

Looking ahead, upcoming discussions will cover Senate Bill 143 regarding civil liability law revisions and House Bill 290 concerning PFAS regulations in products like cosmetics and firefighting gear. Senate Bill 19 will address theft-related sentencing laws while House Bill 297 proposes mandatory paid sick leave for businesses with over ten employees—a measure opposed by NFIB due to concerns about government regulation on small businesses.

Additional proposals being tracked include revisions to punitive damages laws (HB 302), potential changes in workers’ compensation insurance limits (LC 1836), and adjustments in minimum wage policies—each attracting varying levels of opposition or support depending on their impact on business operations across Montana.