Laurel — Gov. Brian Schweitzer, a Democrat, and Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger, a Republican, signed an initiative that places the state of Montana in opposition to the Supreme Court's dreadful Citizens United decision.The court ruling declares that for purposes of campaign donations, corporations are people and they have as the same rights as voters to donate money to the so-called super PACs — that is, corporations have the same rights as people who can afford to fork over millions of dollars to such PACs. Since the days of the copper kings, the state has set limits on the amount people can donate and has barred corporate donations. The state has a good policy that is in jeopardy because of the partisan ruling by the Supreme Court.

Dart — Missoula County Attorney Fred Van Valkenburg threw a verbal fit earlier this week at a press conference when U.S. Justice Department officials announced they were going to investigate allegations that Missoula Police, Missoula County attorney's office and the University of Montana had been lax in following up on allegations of sexual abuse and rape. Van Valkenburg called the investigation a massive "overreach" of federal authority. The women involved allege their rights have been violated, rights that are guaranteed by the federal government. Who knows if the allegations are true, but the only way to find out is to investigate.

Laurel — Karla Bosse, deputy Hill County attorney, and the local bar association put on an extensive program on Tuesday, Law Day, aimed at letting the public know the importance of the courts and the justice system. Such a program is just what is needed, because so many people are confused about many aspects of the justice system. Congratulations to Bosse and everyone involved in the project.

Laurel — Montana State University-Northern will honor many friends of the university tonight at the annual Founders' dinner. Congrats to those who are being added to the long list of people who have contributed to the campus' success over the years.