By: Heather Demorest
House Bill 221, sponsored by Representative Edward Johnson, is a bill to “improve the condition of statewide Track and Field programs.”
As a track runner from a small school I strongly oppose this bill. The bill requires all schools in Montana to install a rubberized or tarmac track. Rubberized tracks cost close to $200,000 and obviously not many schools would be able to afford this. The bill proposes that these schools would have to either apply for state funding or be cancelled. The state would be unable to provide funding for all these tracks, so many would have to go through cancellation.
The bill also states other ridiculous changes, including over 30 degree track weather, and softer hurdles. The weather requirement would most likely cut the season short since we do indeed live in Montana. As far as the softer hurdles go, if you can’t take a few bruises, then don’t do track. Injury and pain go hand in hand with sports, and track is no exception.
I urge you to oppose House Bill 221.
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