By: Austin Trunkle | Business Outreach & Economic Policy Project Manager
Montana’s 67th legislative session officially kicked-off on January 4th, 2021. This session promises to be one for the history books as our lawmakers grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it poses to our system of government.
The pandemic is not the only tectonic shift that will shape the way the legislature functions. For the first time in 16-years, the second floor of the capitol will be occupied by a Republican, Governor Greg Gianforte. Governor Gianforte has outlined a plan that focuses on job creation, talent attraction, and increasing Montana’s business friendliness through a series of tax reforms. The Governor will be working in concert with Republican lawmakers who hold sizable majorities in both the House and the Senate. The House is made-up of 67 Republicans and 33 Democrats while the Senate has 31 Republicans and 19 Democrats. The heavy Republican majority will likely lend itself well to achieving the Governor’s policy goals.
In spite of the challenges presented by the pandemic, Montanans can still engage in the legislative process by offering their testimony in-person or via Zoom. It is important to note is that, should you wish to testify, you must submit your comments or request a Zoom link by 12pm on the business day before the scheduled hearing. The portal to submit your comments can be found here and the list of scheduled hearings here.