HB 13 which is the bill that gives state workers a wage increase as well as other negotiated benefits, had its first hearing in the legislature yesterday (01/03/23). The following are comments from Larry Nielsen, the MFPE Field Consultant - "There was a large contingency of union representatives in the room to show their support. Rep. Fitzpatrick, the bill’s sponsor, did a great job presenting the bill, saying that it wasn’t a pay increase but rather a break even due to the high inflation.Several agency directors testified in support of the bill, citing large vacancies and turnover in their agencies. I gave short testimony stating that the deal was bargained in good faith with the Governor, a governor who brings a wealth of business background to state government.There were no opponents to testify and no questions from the committee. I’m not quite sure what to make of the no questions. I guess we’ll see." 

This is an important bill to get passed for Montana workers, including 233 members that work in several state agencies, including but not limited to the state prison, state hospital and Ft. Harrison. We may need help on this one in the future, but so far the process is looking good. You can access the bill with all the details here- https://leg.mt.gov/bills/2023/billpdf/HB0013.pdf