Dems, GOP aim for cooperation at Capitol

HELENA — Lawmakers filled the Capitol building this week, marking the beginning of Montana's 63rd Legislature.

The 90-day session convenes under a new governor, Democrat Steve Bullock, who previously served as Montana's attorney general. Republicans control both houses of the Legislature – leaving the legislative and executive branches split between the parties, just as it was in 2011. GOP lawmakers outnumber Democrats 29-21 in the Senate and 61-39 in the House.

Photo by Amy Sisk

The Montana State Capitol will be the scene of political intrigue for the enxt four months.

The parties frequently...