Loge stands ground on rules debate

Greetings from Helena. While being new to the Senate, I am a more senior legislator. I've spent my life clearing paths, literally plowing snow on our highways, mending fences on the ranch, logging and attending important community meetings. I have used a straightforward approach, with use of the best information, tools and people available to accomplish the task. 

We need to use this same approach in the Senate. We need to gather the best information available, use the correct committee that is related to the bills, and have the most experienced committee members on that topic dealing with the appropriate bills. We have to have transparency in this process so all Montanans can heard, be aware of what is going on and all bills treated fairly and not in a vacuum. 

I stood my ground this past week on the rules debate to ensure all Montanans have a voice. I felt there was a chance some critical issues could get locked in special committees, leaving important senators out of those debates and unable to represent their constituents. These rules I voted against could have left myself and other legislators out of critical open discussions on things that are especially important to rural legislators like myself trying to ensure property tax relief for hard working families, rural health care, and funding for our schools and roads. 

Some folks say my stance isn't conservative. I say standing up for fairness, transparency and local control is conservative. It's just plain common sense. I'm a conservative Republican, always have been, always will be. Now with fair rules in place, it is time to get to work for all Montanans. 

I am chairman of the Fish and Game Committee, dealing with fish, wildlife, habitat and access issues that will come to the committee. I am vice chairman of the Transportation Committee, focusing on highways and bridges, relating to safety and infrastructure funding. My third committee is Business and Labor with topics being insurance, licensing and labor and industry. I have eight years of experience on each of these committees in the House of Representatives. 

In the background I also work on practical solutions for wildfire protection and predator control for our ranchers, farmers and timber folks. I know hard work and straight talk. Whether I am in Helena or back home on the ranch, you folks are my priority, the folks that make this great state. 

I am proud to represent you and will continue to be sure all your voices are heard on all issues to build a stronger Montana. 

Sen. Denley Loge, R-St. Regis