I am enthusiastically seeking re-election to the Montana House of Representatives so that I can continue to serve the people of Whitefish in House District 5. I have been working with legislators from both parties with ideas that will improve government services and provide predictable revenues to fund such essential services. It is important that at times we set aside philosophical differences and collaborate to solve problems facing Montana.
In my first session, I lived near the capital and I awoke very early each work day to study bills before me in upcoming committee hearings, as well as those reaching their second or third readings to be voted on by all members of the House. I also prepared to present bills that I either sponsored or carried for a senator into committee and onto the House floor. My bid for re-election is inspired in part by my admiration for the tireless work ethic exhibited by many of my colleagues and staff members. The historic environment within the capital building urges diligence in service. I am also inspired by the many correspondences I received from you while in Helena. I consider myself a very lucky guy to be granted the privilege to serve. It is for these reasons I ask for your support to re-elect me as your representative to the legislature.
The 2019 legislature will consider very important issues concerning opportunities and well being of every Montanan. Our revenues experienced a significant slide in the year 2017. I will seek pragmatic ideas concerning tax collection that might tap into emerging strengths in our economy. The impacts of reduced revenues have been profound. The Department of Public Health and Human Services have reduced services for case workers servicing citizens in need. Our number of foster care children which number about 4,000 statewide, stretches Child Protective Services. The need to properly fund public education and allow universal access to high education remains a legislative imperative. And of course, the legislature will address the renewal of Medicaid Expansion currently providing health insurance to 92,000 low income Montana’s.
Many efforts have been made to open our elections to the highest bidders. I am proud of Montana’s strict campaign laws and continued efforts to exclude dark money from our state campaigns. To date, we have been able to retain some semblance of monetary sanity to our legislative races. An individual is limited to $170 contribution per election cycle. My upcoming campaign will cost upward to $15,000. These costs include replacement of yard signs, design and printing of new brochures, mailers, social media presence and access to voting data within the district. Please consider contributing to my campaign for re-election to HD-5 so I can be a successful candidate.
Your ideas and help are welcome. I look forward to hearing from you as the campaign progresses. Thank you for your encouragement.
Dave Fern