Democrats urge Admin to Use Available ARPA Funding to Support Montana Businesses and Jobs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, June 17, 2022
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press@montanademocrats.org
Democrats urge Admin to Use Available ARPA Funding to Support Montana Businesses and Jobs
The flood is already having profound effects on MT Gateway economy
Helena, MT – In the aftermath of the devastating Yellowstone flood and the loss of homes and businesses near Montana’s largest tourist attraction, Montana Democratic leadership has called on the Gianforte Administration to immediately use the available $93 million in America Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to help Montana businesses and workers. The APRA funds have already been earmarked to support Montana businesses and have not yet been allocated by the Administration.
Three out of five jobs in Park County are created by tourism. Gardiner, MT and other Gateway Communities are already seeing the profound effects of the flood. Reservations have been canceled. Hotels and businesses that relied on the tourists from Yellowstone National Park have already started firing employees.
“We’re already seeing the effects of the flood on working Montanans and our tourism economy. It’s critical that the Governor moves fast and uses all available funds to help these communities recover quickly,” says Sheila Hogan, executive director of the Montana Democratic Party. “Montana Democratic leaders are calling on the governor to join them in working towards solutions.”
How are other Montana Democrats helping their neighbors through the crisis?
Rep Laurie Bishop, HD 60 (Livingston), was out filling sandbags until past midnight on Monday, and has helped coordinate and promote sandbagging in Livingston Tuesday afternoon at Park County Fairgrounds.
Penny Ronning, Democratic Candidate for MT-02, showed up at the safety briefing in Red Lodge for impacted residents.
Ruth Weissman, candidate HD 59, opened her property to neighbors and community members who needed a place to stay.
James Reavis, candidate for HD 50, brought water and canned goods to a Billings community drive
Andrea Getts, candidate for HD 3, bagged sandbags with family up in Columbia Falls
Carole Boerner, candidate for HD 51, helped set up a community fund for donations directly distributed to workers and families in Gardiner.
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