Top priorities this legislative session

This week we gave the Oath of Office, promising to uphold the constitutions of the United States and Montana. This 67th Legislative Session proves to be a unique one, and as we begin, I want to thank the legislative staff who have done a tremendous job of making sure we may safely do our work.

Many people have asked me what I hope to do for you all. This is my first time ever serving in the legislature, so the learning curve will be steep! That having been said, the primary answer to the question is that I want to make sure that people have jobs. These are tough times for many and I hope to help. More specifically, below are some of my top priorities:

1. My top legislative priority is quite simple: I will do my best to bring basic respect and civility to Helena. This is the issue most important to voters, and will help us get our job done – solving problems together. I will look for the similarities and not the differences.

2. Property Tax Relief: Hard working Montanans have been hit hard recently. I will work to bring real tax relief to working Montanans so they can stay in their homes.

3. We need to address the Child Care Crisis. Too many workers are staying home because childcare is unavailable for 45% of families and it can cost over $1,000/month per child. We need a strong workforce and high-quality childcare for the children of workers.

4. Infrastructure: We need broadband for rural Montanans and schools and good paying jobs to build sewer systems, bridges and public buildings.

5. Protect our outstanding public schools and universities for a skilled workforce for tomorrow.

It is an honor to represent you and I'll do my best to respond to your concerns, ideas and perspectives. Do not hesitate to call me on my cell phone at 406-274-3805 or email me at shannonformontana@gmail.com.