THIS TUESDAY, FEB 14: Speak up for local power to protect the environment.
On Tuesday, February 14, at 3 p.m., the House Local Government Committee will hear HB 413.
HB 413 will repeal HB 407, restoring local power to regulate plastics in Montana.
Here's what you can do:
A - Testify to the House Local Government Committee in person
When: Tuesday, February 14th @ 3 p.m.
Where: MT State Capitol, Room 472
B - Can't make it to Helena? Register to testify electronically (OR UPLOAD TESTIMONY) before 5 p.m. on Monday, 2/13:
Click this link: https://leg.mt.gov/public-testimony/
Select HB 413 from the drop down menu, and the committee hearing time will automatically generate.
Select "Proponent" from drop down menu.
Insert your personal info.
If you're testifying via Zoom, click the "Yes" bubble when prompted. If you're sending in testimony before the hearing, upload your comments.
Click submit!
C - Email, or CALL and LEAVE A MESSAGE, FOR the House Local Government Committee, and voice your support for HB 413:
Submit a written message using this form. HB 413 is the bill number. Send it to the House Local Government committee.
Call (406) 444-4800 to voice your support of HB 413, and your message will be delivered to the committee.
DETAILS
It's time for that to change. This Tuesday, MT legislators will have the opportunity to restore local power to regulate plastics via HB 413.
HB 413, introduced by Representative Ed Stafman, is a product of collaboration between local governments, citizen groups, small businesses, and environmental nonprofits from across the state of Montana. We are speaking up for local power, and it is time for the state to listen.
Montana is at a crossroads for local power. Amidst a legislative session riddled with bills that bolster state overreach, HB 413 is a unique step in the right direction.
Tips for Testimony
Keep your statement under two minutes.
Be respectful.
Give 1-2 reasons why this is a good bill.
If you are testifying, try to keep your remarks unique from others who are testifying. Use your own words.
If you are emailing your representative, mention HB 413 in the subject line.
Recruit others to testify from locations across the state. The more diversity in testimony, the better!
Sample Talking Points FOR TESTIMONY OR WRITTEN COMMENTS
1) Plastic pollution is a problem in MT. Local governments should be allowed to address it as they see fit.
2) HB 413 is not just about plastic pollution – it's about state vs. local control. Restoring local power will allow cities and towns to efficiently address novel issues in ways that are most beneficial for their communities.
3) Montanans are making their voices heard about their desire for more local power. The Cities of Bozeman and Missoula have both passed resolutions supporting HB 413. The City of Billings has also expressed its support. Many small businesses, individuals, and citizen groups from across the state have spoken up on this issue. It's time for the State to listen to its residents.
Download this fact sheet about micro plastics or this broader plastics fact sheet to support your 1-2 minute testimony, or written comments.