Big Sky Times

State Director Ronda Wiggers provided an update from Helena on recent legislative activities concerning small businesses. The Senate faced delays due to discussions on ethics reports, impacting the progression of several bills. The House is preparing to address HB 2, which contains the state budget, with hearings already held by the Appropriations Committee.

Key legislative deadlines are approaching, with April 5 set for revenue bills and April 8 for appropriation bills. After these dates, no new bills are expected, with all existing bills having completed at least one hearing.

Several NFIB-supported bills have advanced to the governor's desk, including:

1. **Tax Reductions**:

- SB 322 proposes increasing business equipment tax exemptions, sponsored by Sen. Josh Kassmier.

- HB 844, a related bill sponsored by Rep. Mike Vinton, was tabled.

2. **Workers' Compensation**:

- HB 143 revises definitions, allowing physician assistants as treating physicians. Sponsored by Rep. Jodee Etchart.

- HB 197 simplifies return-to-work processes, sponsored by Rep. Anthony Nicastro.

- SB 109 includes physical therapists in definitions, monitored by NFIB.

Pending workers' compensation bills are awaiting Senate floor votes, such as HB 367 and HB 428, both supported by NFIB. HB 516 is also under observation.

3. **Unemployment Insurance**:

- HB 210, sponsored by Rep. Steve Fitzpatrick, aims to lower UI rates, now awaiting the governor's signature.

In **Tort Reform**, HB 302 was tabled, while SB 143, reducing contractor liability statutes, awaits the governor's approval.

Other important bills progressing include HB 443, HB 463, and HB 530, with the latter two monitored by NFIB. In the House, SB 19 and SB 528 await further committee actions.

Finally, SB 329 faces opposition from NFIB due to the burden on small businesses, while HB 226 offers an alternative for employment law enforcement. NFIB opposes HB 477, which proposes phasing out polystyrene containers.

Upcoming hearings include SB 418 regarding home-based businesses on April 3, supported by NFIB.