Mont. Governor Endorses Workers’ Comp Compromise

Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s administration said Wednesday that it is supporting a deal with Republicans to cut workers’ compensation insurance rates that are widely regarded as too expensive, paving the way for a big compromise on one of the larger legislative issues of the session. Labor Commissioner Keith Kelly told a Senate panel that the governor will support a reform measure from House Republicans after negotiated changes are attached, which the administration believes will provide needed protections for workers. He said the compromise was finally reached late Tuesday night.