Sen. Peterson on the Pace of the Session
Posted by admin
Senate President Jim Peterson
Some people have asked me how the pace of this session compares with previous sessions. I’ve responded by explaining that we’re going to take a steady hand in tough times. Slow and steady wins the race.
This year’s pace is not significantly different from previous sessions. Balancing the budget is going to be a long and tedious process. Everyone will have a shot at every bill so that everything gets pretty well ousted. This is the people’s house; everybody’s welcome.
I have confidence in this process, and recently met with Senate Committee Chairs to discuss the progress of bills in hearing committees. On the floor, I’ve encouraged Senators to get bills rolling if they are on hold.
Yesterday the Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 160, sponsored by Senator Vincent of Libby. The bill allows for off-highway vehicular use on designated trails in parks and FASs, and will support sustainable recreation in the state.
Today the Senate will vote on SB 143 to revise grizzly bear policies sponsored by Senator Debby Barrett of Dillon. Support for the bill has already been expressed by both sides of the aisle.
Many constituents have listed predators and wildlife management as one of their top concerns. This session, we’ve seen numerous bills relating to both.