Eric Dietrich — I’m following tax policy and the state budget, with a particular eye on what (if anything) the Legislature ends up doing to try to address rising residential property taxes. Several proposals are still in the mix, including Gov. Greg Gianforte’s preferred method to lower taxes on primary residences by raising taxes on second homes. edietrich@montanafreepress.org
Alex Sakariassen — There’s plenty of education policy in play this session, but it’s the Legislature’s proposed investments in Montana children that I’m paying particularly close attention to. Will a proposed $100 million infusion of state cash to boost teacher pay blunt lawmaker appetites for smaller appropriations elsewhere? Will lawmakers embrace a $1,200-per-child tax credit for families struggling to afford child care? These are my top-of-mind questions heading into the second half. asakariassen@montanafreepress.org
Mara Silvers — The first part of the session had me focused on Medicaid expansion bills, abortion policy, transgender health care, behavioral health investments and medical malpractice regulation. I’ll be tracking those issues during the Legislature’s second half, but I’m also interested in expanding coverage to other parts of the health and human services world. Please reach out if you’re following tobacco, vape and kratom policies; foster care and child welfare issues; and legislation about food and nutrition access. Don’t assume that I’m keeping close tabs on a bill you care about — let me know what I should be watching! msilvers@montanafreepress.org
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