Mike Cuffe: notes from Helena on govenor's proposals

Infrastructure funding ranks high on the list of bills rolling through the 65th Legislature, and they remain big in my life at the Capitol. Bridges, roads, water and sewer systems, school projects and more.

The Governor’s proposals involve some surprising twists such as a raid on coal trust infrastructure dollars, news that Montana’s financial affairs are in tough shape, and many recycled building proposals. Recycled long range building program requests include a $28 million museum in Helena.

Gov. Bullock seeks to take dollars away from projects they were dedicated to, and then fund some projects by selling 20-year bonds to be repaid from future general funds. Surprisingly, the $300 million ending fund balance has been spent, although Montana’s “good” financial health was a key part of the gubernatorial campaign. In addition to the transfer of funds, he is asking for a variety of tax increases.

Many infrastructure packages are being discussed, including possible gas tax increases for highway infrastructure.

As chair of Appropriations Long Range Planning Subcommittee, our task was to review the Governor’s plan. We moved the governor’s infrastructure proposals to the full Appropriations Committee last week.

I am still asking: How the heck did Montana drop from a $300 million surplus to a big red hole in such a short time? Is a $300 million ending fund balance necessary? Are other state special accounts available for transfer instead of infrastructure dollars? Is there a way to keep infrastructure money for infrastructure projects?

Is this simply due to a slump in revenues coming in, or is it a problem of increased spending in recent years. Other subcommittees have been working hard to reduce spending. New spending ideas are being carefully scrutinized, as are new taxes.

House GOP Leadership asked me to help develop a better plan. I believe that all 150 senators and representatives working together with the governor can develop a good plan for Montana. I will be part of the solution.

Rep. Mike Cuffe

Montana House District 2