Laslovich, a 26-year-old Anaconda Democrat, started work Monday as an assistant attorney general, McGrath said.
McGrath said recent turnover in his office, coupled with more work, created openings he needed to fill. Laslovich was recruited, the attorney general said.
Rep. John Sinrud, R-Bozeman, proposed legislation earlier this year that would have banned lawmakers from taking jobs with the executive branch of state government. The measure passed the Republican-controlled House, but died in a Senate controlled by Democrats.
Laslovich voted against the bill.
"You might as well hire the whole Legislature to work for government," Sinrud said. "That's what it is coming to."
Sinrud pointed to administration jobs previously given to state Sens. Mike Cooney of Helena and Sam Kitzenberg of Glasgow. Sinrud argues that such appointments could be viewed as political payoff.
"Here we go again," he said. "It gives me pause for concern."
Laslovich said government should be able to hire the job candidates it would like, free of restrictions in Sinrud's failed bill. The criticism coming from Republicans appears politically motivated, Laslovich said.
Both he and McGrath pointed out that Laslovich will be on McGrath's personal staff, meaning the job is a political appointment that ends with McGrath's tenure. McGrath won't be running for the office in 2008 due to term limits, and has announced his candidacy for Supreme Court chief justice.
Because of that, Laslovich does not expect to be working for the office when the 2009 Legislature convenes.
"When Mike goes, I go," Laslovich said.
Laslovich, a 2006 graduate of the University of Montana Law School, will be paid $45,760 a year in the attorney general's office.
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