2017 Montana Legislature Week 10: Child abuse, bed tax, health care, landlords

After uncertainty about how the upcoming special congressional election would change the makeup of the Montana Legislature, the nomination of Democrat Rob Quist and Republican Greg Gianforte means it’s back to business as usual at the state Capitol.

Multiple legislators had announced their intention to run for the vacant congressional seat after former Rep. Ryan Zinke was nominated and then confirmed as U.S. Secretary of the Interior.

By Michael Siebert/UM Legislative News Service

Full Story: http://www.missoulacurrent.com/government/2017/03/montana-legislature-roundup-3/

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Special education struggles to find funding in 65th Legislature

The main state budget bill at the Montana Legislature passed first reading last week with some surprises, like the restoration of $11.5 million in higher education funding and some expected cuts.

But one area has consistently struggled to find funding throughout the entirety of the 65th Montana Legislative session — special education. Funded through a combination of federal dollars and state funds, special education has seen minimal increases in state funds, leaving local and federal dollars to pick up the slack, according to a report by the legislative school funding interim committee.

By Michael Siebert/UM Legislative News Service

Full Story: http://www.missoulacurrent.com/government/2017/03/montana-legislature-special-education/