Unrest Among Montana Legislators Over Fiscal Notes Sparks Tensions
Helena, MT — Tensions among Montana’s Republican legislators are escalating, primarily centering in the Senate and spilling into the House. Recent communications from House Majority Leader Steve Fitzpatrick to Senate President Matt Regier involved complaints about numerous bills transmitted to the House lacking fiscal notes—essential cost estimates necessary for informed decision-making.
Fitzpatrick warned that without these fiscal evaluations, the legislature risks violating Montana’s constitutional balanced budget provision. He flagged concerns that passing bills without fiscal notes could authorize significant, unbudgeted expenditures that might surpass millions. Identifying potential impacts nearing $300 million, he expressed that such oversights in the legislative process are not merely procedural; they threaten the integrity of the state’s budgeting.
Regier rebuffed Fitzpatrick’s claims, labeling the correspondence as "unprofessional" and indicative of a political agenda. He emphasized that it should be the responsibility of individual legislators, bill sponsors, or committee leaders to request fiscal notes, rather than relying on staff evaluations from the Governor’s budget office. Regier’s stance marks a departure from past legislative practices and emphasizes a more hands-on approach for lawmakers.
However, Fitzpatrick has indicated that the lack of automatic fiscal notes in the drafting process could hinder taxpayer protection. While he initially threatened to kill bills lacking fiscal notes if Regier did not take action, he softened his position, acknowledging that either chamber could request fiscal evaluations.
By mid-week, it was reported that new fiscal notes had been requested for several bills of concern. Fitzpatrick expressed optimism about the situation but stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility in safeguarding taxpayer interests. As both chambers navigate these contentious waters, the question remains: can they find a compromise that protects the budget while fostering effective legislation?
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