Republicans Finally Focus on Economy Just Long Enough to Kill a Bill to Stimulate Economic Growth

Then turn right back to attacking Montanans’ freedom.

Helena MT –  Today, Republicans in the Legislature temporarily shifted their focus from attacking freedoms to Montana’s economy — for just long enough to kill a bill to grow the economy, SB 124. 

SB 124 would have provided businesses with a recruitment tool and stimulated economic growth by exempting income taxes on student loan payments made by employers. This bill would have relieved workers from the burden of student loans and kept local money in local economies, where small businesses recirculate a greater share of every dollar back into other locally owned supply chains and invest in their employees. Additionally, it was a way to recruit and retain skilled workers that might otherwise move out of state.

“Republicans in the legislature promised voters last election cycle they would prioritize our economic recovery. To date, they have spent the vast majority of their legislative effort pushing a radical social agenda while Democrats have led the way on job creation, tax cuts, health care, and broadband infrastructure,” said Sandi Luckey, Executive Director of the Montana Democratic Party. “It is one thing to ignore the issues you campaigned on — it’s another entirely to actively work against it.”

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