Majority Leader Thomas is Optimistic at Helena
Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas feels that the legislators are off to a good start at the Montana Legislature. Thomas told KLYQ, "There's a great deal of start-up and things that need to be done to have a successful legislative session ... There's a million things to do, but it's coming together.I think it's about as organized and 'getting as ready' as I have seen us do in a long time."
One of the early bills introduced in the session that Thomas supports would require workers compensation to all volunteer fire districts. He said currently about 80 percent have such coverage, but the Stevensville legislator would like to see all volunteer firefighters covered. Senate Bill 29, as it currently stands, would have a three-year implementation period. There is a similar bill in the House - House Bill 28 - but Thomas doesn't like the funding portion of that measure.