"With the Montana Legislature under way, Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, is asking fellow lawmakers to support nearly a dozen bills addressing issues such as domestic violence, celebrating American Indian heritage and improving health care services for rural Montanans.

Windy Boy, who represents Senate District 16, has stepped into his first term as a state senator after serving three terms as a representative. His legislative duties include assignments on the Business, Labor and Economic Affairs, Highways and Transportation and State Administration committees.

The Cree leader from the Rocky Boy's Reservation is one of nine Natives in the Montana Legislature. As a lawmaker, he has devoted much time and energy to introducing bills that focus on domestic violence.

This session, his priority bill - LC 1965 is still being drafted - calls for a study on the effects of child trauma due to domestic violence.

Windy Boy said he's heard many stories about the devastating effects of home violence on children around the state. Children who witness domestic violence often become overlooked victims, which concerns him."

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