State of Montana Newsroom
Gov. Gianforte Appoints Thomas Lee Bruner to Workers’ Compensation Court
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today announced his appointment of Thomas Lee Bruner to serve on the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court.
“A Butte native, Lee Bruner is an accomplished, experienced attorney who will bring his commitment to the fair, consistent, and objective application of the law to the Montana Workers’ Compensation Court,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Given his experience and the overwhelming, positive public comment supporting Lee, I’m confident he will make an exceptional judge and serve the people of Montana well.”
Bruner graduated from Montana State University in 1992 and the University of Montana School of Law in 1995. He has served as the Deputy Clerk of the Montana Supreme Court since January 2019 and as an attorney in private practice for more than two decades.
On June 5, the governor began soliciting applications from and nominations of any lawyer in good standing who meets the qualifications necessary to hold the office of workers’ compensation court judge. The application period closed on July 5.
On July 6, the governor initiated the 30-day public comment period for the four applicants, which continued through Friday, August 4. During that period, the public had the opportunity to provide letters of support or other comments regarding the applicants. Applicants must receive at least three letters of support to be considered for appointment by the governor.
The governor’s appointee is subject to Senate confirmation.
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