Legislature

Lawmakers in Helena are considering a bill that would infuse money back into the state’s main revenue fund by increasing taxes on new oil and gas wells. House Bill 215 would remove what is called a tax holiday, which is a tax incentive for oil and gas companies during the first year of production

Bicyclists from around the state are rallying against a proposed bill that would ban bicyclists and pedestrians from using virtually every two-lane road in the state that doesn’t have a paved shoulder.

A House committee will hear legislation Thursday guaranteeing foster children a safe, respectful living environment, with access to health care and cultural and religious activities. “What we’re doing is saying here is what we think are the important outcomes for foster children," Kalispell Rep. Frank Garner said. "And I think as the state of Montana, it’s important for us to say here’s the value that we place on them.”

Should the state of Montana divert bed tax money to build a tourism center in Canada? State legislators are deeply divided on the question. Meanwhile, the same Senate bill cuts funds use to promote filmmaking from $1.1 million to $200,000.

Rep. Vince Ricci doesn't want Montanans using their government assistance dollars on energy drinks; thus his House Bill 156. But Rep. Jessica Karjala the bill is "vilification of the poor."

HELENA - County officials from across Montana ascended Capitol Hill Tuesday in support of House Bill 14, which would borrow $157.4 million for infrastructure projects in the state through general obligation bonds. The bill would help fund 48 projects with its grants.

Eight Missoula legislators said Wednesday they are working to pass two bills aimed at infrastructure and jobs, a topic under debate in the Montana Legislature.

Twenty percent of Montana's workforce would get a pay raise to $10-plus an hour if Rep. Mary Ann Dunwell's bill passes muster in the Legislature. But business owners and their lobbyists are fighting the proposal.

Set for a hearing Tuesday, House Bill 194 would prohibit Montana cities and towns from ticketing drivers who texted or talked on their cellphone while behind the wheel.

Should Montana voters help fund the university system? Is air ambulance service too pricey? These were among the questions last week at the 65th legislative session.