The final week had a lot of the same atmosphere and feel of tension as did the first week when the rule book was out several times. Trouble with the rule book is one word – attorneys! They each seem to interrupt it towards their own perceptions. Rules were established and silver bullets made their appearance.
The last days were filled with drama and tension as the Senate’s infrastructure bill was the last bill on the House floor. The bill passed 2nd reading on Friday by one vote, then on Saturday it failed 3rd reading by a few votes. On Thursday the House had asked the Governor’s office if they would work with us on negotiating a lower amount of bonding and increase the amount of cash spending. The answer back was, “We want the bill just as it is now.” On Friday and again Saturday, same question with the same answer. Monday brought the same question to the Governor’s office, this time pointing out the obvious – without negotiation the bill will fail. Again the Governor’s office did not blink. Tuesday morning the House floor opened at 7:00, we took the vote, bill failed and at 7:08 we adjourned for the final time. Sometimes politics gets in front of reasonable and responsible decision making; this is one of those times. Will we be called back for a special session to look at SB-416 again? I hope so. There are several much needed projects for the rural communities, and good structure projects like the MSU campus and the Historical Society in Helena. The Governor’s all or nothing stand is mostly a political decision. Campaign bullet points.
I think overall the folks of Montana should be pleased with the major bills that passed. From my perspective not quite as positive because of the fiscal increases we created, and the many tax reduction bills that were not passed, or were vetoed. The liberal bills did well this time, the moderates on both sides got some of their favorites, and the conservatives are not as pleased with their results. The veto pen is the final decision maker in way too many cases. Good solid conservative fiscal bills that pass in both houses, often with large favorable margins, good bills for the people of this state, and then the power of one pen brings the fatal ending to beneficial legislation. Dang!
I have enjoyed sharing with you a little different look at the inside of the legislature happenings. I want to close by saying a huge thank you for the many supportive comments each week. That means a lot and is much appreciated.
Rep. Ed Greef, HD-88
Florence