Burgers, beers and hospitality business issues
Pub Date: 1/1/2009
By Steve Bullock
Montana Atty. Gen.-elect
For the better part of the last two years, my family and I have traveled to every corner of this state, and in nearly every town I had the opportunity to visit folks in the taverns, restaurants, bars and diners that are such an important part of our communities.
I had more than my share of good cheeseburgers ¦and one or two cold beers along the way.
In these uncertain economic times, it s imperative that the small businesses that form the backbone of our state can continue to thrive. During the campaign, I had the opportunity to meet with the members and leadership of the Montana tavern Association, Gaming Industry Association and Montana Coin Machine Operators Association, and I enter the office with a solid understanding of the issues facing your industry.
I also understand how important the revenue generated by Montana taverns through food and liquor sales and gambling returns is in funding the important projects that make Montana such a great place to live.
To give you a little of my background, prior to running for Attorney General I served in the attorney general's office for four years. From there, in 2001 my wife and I moved to Washington D.C. where I practiced law and served as an adjunct professor at the George Washington University School of Law.
In 2004, we moved back to Helena, where I started my own private practice. As an attorney, I have worked on a broad range of issues. I have represented individuals, consumer organizations, labor unions and small businesses, helping them navigate their way through government regulations.
Becoming Montana's Attorney General is an exciting opportunity.
At its core, the Montana Department of Justice is about protecting, preserving and improving our state. As Attorney General, part of my charge is to ensure that, throughout this diverse 750-employee department, we are all working together to ensure that Montana is safer and presents more opportunities for the next generation that follows behind us.
As a husband and the proud father of a six-, four- and two-year-old, I will work hard to make sure that our families and neighborhoods are safe. The hospitality industry also plays an important role in keeping our communities safe by keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors.
I am very much looking forward to this next chapter and serving as Montana s 20th Attorney General. I am fortunate in that, as I take office, the Gambling Control Division is at the forefront of technology and staff professionalism. I look forward to working closely with you and the Gaming Advisory Council as we conduct our respective businesses.
Editor's note: Steve Bullock was elected Montana Attorney General Nov. 4, 2008. He officially takes office Jan. 6, 2009. He lives with his wife and family in Helena.
Source: The Montana Tavern Times, January, 2009, published monthly by Continental Communications, 125 W. Granite St., Suite 102, Butte, MT 59701.