Getting started in the 2009 Legislature

Rep. Scott Reichner

House District 9

Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of columns that Bigfork’s House Representative Scott Reichner will write for the Bigfork Eagle over the course of the 2009 Legislature.

The 61st session of the State of Montana Legislature began Monday Jan. 5, at which I was sworn into office to represent House District 9. It was a wonderful and moving event. I would like to sincerely thank all of you for your support of me, and of my family during the election year and during my term as a representative. I am humbled and honored to be here in Helena and to serve as your Representative.

During this year’s session I will be sharing with you a review of the latest week's topics, and any special events along with some bills that are of interest to our district. I would also like to encourage the residents of House District 9 to provide me with their concerns, comments or ideas during this session.

Please email me at sreichner@centurytel.net with your comments. Hopefully we can create a dialog of information that will be of some worth. In addition, please access the legislative website at www.leg.mt.gov for a wide range of information.

It seems that most of the state’s political leaders have recognized the difficult state of the economy, and that it is incumbent to “live within our means.”

Just a few months ago we were told of a large surplus budget. Now, we are told that that surplus is rapidly decreasing. During this session we will have to decide what the budget will be for the next two years, which may end up being very difficult to do. I will try to provide updates as to the status of the state’s budget as the session progresses.

The leadership of both parties have pledged to work together to do the business of Montanans. Partisan bickering is useless and needs to end. We need to disagree agreeably. It is my wish to do just that. I am very excited about this opportunity to be your representative and look forward to hearing from you.