(With audio) Monday marked the start of the 65th Montana Legislature, but before legislators get down to business they'll attend 'law school' and put a bit of polish on the bills they brought to Helena.
(With audio) The 65th Montana Legislature convened Monday in Helena with promises of cooperation and respect, and an ambitious agenda that includes job creation, infrastructure work, and adoption of a biennial state budget.
Rep. Brad Tschida, R-Missoula and the House majority whip, may be open to a bonding measure for infrastructure priorities; House minority leader Rep. Nate McConnell calls it a good start.
A backlog of state infrastructure needs and the cancellation of the Russell Street project has increased frustration among city leaders, who are looking to the Legislature for solutions.
A funding shortfall in the Montana Department of Transportation and a disagreement in Helena over ways to generate new revenue will delay a number of state road projects.
The 2017 Legislature convenes in one month, and the city is backing several priorities formulated by the Montana League of Cities and Towns, as well as the Montana Infrastructure Coalition.