Protect small business

I believe small businesses are the economic engine of Montana. They employ the majority of people and pay the bulk of the taxes. These taxes are collected directly from the business or indirectly through the people the business employs.

Small business will want to be here and will subsequently prosper only if they are made to feel welcome. How we are ranked nationally according to our tax structure helps, but I believe it is only part of the equation.

Having had business concerns I can tell you a more friendly business atmosphere needs to be honed in Montana. It has been my experience that there is sometimes a "you versus us" attitude when dealing with state employees. Added to that is digesting and preparing the applications. And, finally the applicant has to locate the permit or licensing departments, the state compensation insurance offices and other agencies. It can be an excruciating process and cost hundreds of dollars.

Montana is the only state with a "Just Cause" law which requires an employer to give a (non-probationary) employee two verbal and one written counseling slip before they can be fired. And, if that law is violated or if there is a wage dispute, the business employer will be contacted by a very aggressive human rights or labor and industry state agent. The next move for the employer is to contact an attorney and get ready for a protracted litigation period, even if the employer is right.

When I am senator I will work to develop a pre-assembled package and then put it and state agency representatives at a table with the prospective small business applicant. Secondly, the various agency representatives would be compelled to attend a one-day course in customer friendly service similar to private industry requirements. I will also work to rid the state of the "Just Cause" law. And, I will work diligently to ensure businesses have protection against the passage of damaging and unconstitutional laws.

I believe senatorial candidates must have a background of business ownership, because small business is so important to Montana's economy. My opponents do not.

Thank you,

Dan Griffin

Senate Candidate

Ferndale