Despite stiff opposition, citizen initiatives remain on ballot

To say folks have spoken out against this batch of citizen initiatives is putting things lightly. One group took their case against 185 all the way to the Montana Supreme Court.  Initiative 186 had a few legislators vying for a Special Session.

Surprising, both will still be on the November ballot.

“We feel what’s in it can only reduce or eliminate the prospects of mining operations in Montana,” said Bridger Mahlum, Government Relations Director for the Montana Chamber of Commerce.

The Montana Chamber of Commerce announced a few days ago that it opposes ballot Initiative 186.  The measure would increase regulation for hard rock mining. The Chamber cited a few issues with the initiative, but ultimately argued that there are enough regulations in place, saying additional red tape would harm the Montana economically.

“I don’t knock on the intentions of the proponents of I-186. We all want to see a healthy environment in Montana. I do not think we have to choose mining or a great environment. I think we can have both without this ballot initiative,” said Mahlum.

However, proponents argue there has to be a choice, saying clean water is in jeopardy. David Brooks, Executive Director for Trout Unlimited and a supporter of 186 says it will not affect current mining operations or the economy. The regulations would allow DEQ to prevent new mines with potential to contaminate water from building.A similar battle story reigns true for initiative 185.

“We’re thankful that the Supreme Court has ruled decisively against big tobacco and really just their attempt to mislead Montana voters,” said Amanda Cahill with the American Heart Association.

Yesterday, the court unanimously turned down a request to change wording on initiative 185. A group called Montanans against tax hikes said the ballot wording was confusing and misleading. That tobacco-funded group was unable to be reached for comment. The measure would tag a two-dollar tax to some tobacco products. That money would go to help expand Medicaid coverage.

“We can decrease the use of tobacco in Montana and save lives,” said Cahill.

Both groups say they’ll keep picketing for their causes through the election cycle in November.