Montana Senate welcomes new pages and honors retiring auditor Cindy Jorgensen

The Montana Senate convened on March 31, 2025, for a session marked by a series of introductions and announcements that highlighted community engagement and ongoing initiatives. The session began with a prayer led by Chaplain Johnson, emphasizing the need for wisdom in governance, particularly regarding taxes and justice.

One of the notable announcements was the commencement of Healthy Soils Week, with Senator Gillespie urging members to participate in upcoming events, including Healthy Soils Day on Wednesday. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of agricultural sustainability and environmental health, which are critical issues for Montana's economy and ecosystem.

The session also featured a series of introductions of new Senate pages, showcasing the involvement of young individuals in the legislative process. Each page was recognized for their achievements and interests, indicating a commitment to fostering civic engagement among youth. This initiative not only provides students with firsthand experience in government but also encourages them to consider future careers in public service.

Additionally, the Senate honored Cindy Jorgensen, the retiring deputy legislative auditor, for her 37 years of service. Her contributions to financial compliance audits have been significant, with her oversight of over $118 billion in state expenditures. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in government operations, as well as the value of long-term public service.

The session concluded with various senators introducing their optometrists, further emphasizing the personal connections and community ties that legislators maintain. This light-hearted moment served to remind attendees of the human aspect of governance, where personal relationships intersect with public duties.

Overall, the March 31 Senate session highlighted key themes of community involvement, environmental sustainability, and the importance of recognizing public service contributions. As the session progresses, these discussions will likely influence future legislative priorities and community initiatives in Montana.