Although it seems like just yesterday I was standing on doorsteps and discussing issues important to you and your families, I wanted to let you know what’s been happening during the first half of the legislative session. We are working hard on the issues you care about.

As you may know Montana ranks 8th-worst in the nation in the rate of uninsured children. More than 31,000 Montana children are without health care coverage. This is an embarrassment, and it’s why I have worked hard to help pass HB 157. This bill, which passed the House 60-40, would implement the Healthy Kids Plan that nearly 23,000 voters in Helena supported last November.

House Bill 190, which guarantees that Montanans can access state waterways from public bridges, passed the House 97-3. I was a strong supporter of the bipartisan effort to clarify Montana citizens’ rights to access our treasured rivers and streams.

I am very proud to carry HB 9, The Arts Bill. This legislation calls for continuing grants for some of Montana's most beloved cultural and artistic events and projects. It will bring over $80,000 in grants to Helena alone. Montanans will be able to continue to enjoy their local ballet, symphony, and theater groups thanks in part to this appropriation.

I also carried HB 108 – the Crime Victims Compensation bill. This legislation will require that when criminals pay restitution, those dollars go to crime victims. These funds can help pay for medical care, counseling, funeral services, even lost wages. It is imperative that the system does not re-victimize crime victims.

In House Bill 2, the main state budget bill, I have requested one full time employee for the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to assist with Helena urban deer planning and management. There are varying opinions on what a sound management policy may include, and I believe the state must play a role in developing a workable plan.

As the session continues, I remain committed to doing all I can to help ensure the passage of these and other bills important to our community and state. Thank you, again, for giving me the opportunity to represent you. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, thoughts, or concerns. I can be reached at galen@hollenbaugh.org, or if you’re at the Capitol, please stop by and say hello.

Sincerely,

Galen