Republican-majority Legislature arrives in Helena, gavels in new session

Montana's majority-Republican Legislature stamped out a mandate Monday for restraining the courts and cutting taxes as the first day of the 2025 session gaveled in.

GOP lawmakers who have seen the courts reject several of their bills on constitutional grounds in recent years pointed to a dominating performance in last year's election as proof of voter demand for Republican policies.

"The voters want court reform. Article Seven of the Montana Constitution, no less than 20 times, says that the Legislature plays a role in developing a judicial system for the state of Montana," said Sen. Majority...