Woodland supports I-185 and I-186

The most democratic way to participate in government is the initiative process. Citizens petition to put a law on the ballot, then voting directly to accept or reject the law.

Montanans recently put two initiatives on the November, 2018 ballot. I-185 expands tobacco taxes, using the money for health-related benefits including Medicaid expansion. Over forty thousand voters signed petitions saying they wanted this on the ballot. I-186 protects taxpayers by outlawing mining proposals that require perpetual water treatment. It does not outlaw all mining as some have claimed. Mines continue to be approved in other states with similar laws.

Some republican legislators reacted to the voter’s petitions by calling for a special legislative session to try to find a way to thwart these initiatives.

One legislator who voted for the special session was Denley Loge. Meanwhile, Diane Magone helped circulate petitions for I-185 to give the voters a voice in this important healthcare choice.

I urge you to support the candidate for House District 14 who cares about your access to healthcare, cares about the survival of your rural hospitals and respects your voice enough to work to make it available to you. Please also support I-185 and I-186.

­— John Woodland, Superior