Republicans across the nation simply never stop trying to find ways to reintroduce creationism into public school science classes.

The latest example is in Montana, where Rep. Clayton Fiscus (R-Billings) is hauling out the old “teach the controversy” canard for another spin. According to Rep. Fiscus, “It’s been about 150 years now since the evolution theory came out, and there’s a lot of evidence came out since then that would indicate we have to think a little bit wider.”

These guys are always a hoot when they try to pretend they’re all about science. It’s almost cute, in a sick way, and Rep. Fiscus is no exception; his bill, introduced yesterday, is titled “Emphasize critical thinking in science education.”

They’re so tricky and clever when they’re in disguise! Who wouldn’t vote for such a wonderful-sounding thing? Well, the Montana House Education Committee, for starters.

HELENA - A lawmaker’s proposal protecting “alternative viewpoints” during the teaching of evolution and science in schools came under fire Friday from opponents who argued it would pave the way for teaching of creationism.

Rep. Clayton Fiscus, R-Billings, said evolution isn’t settled science and called it a “monumental leap” to believe it is true. His bill would allow teachers - if they want - to address perceived weaknesses in evolution studies in the classroom.

“This is just a bill to instruct what we have presently in the science on the origins of life,” Fiscus said. “We should teach what we do know. We should also teach what we don’t know.”

The House Education Committee didn’t take immediate action on the proposal. There were no supporters, and roughly two dozen opponents.

The bill says it does not promote the teaching of religious doctrine, and “only protects the teaching of scientific information.”

An early draft version of the bill sought to teach “intelligent design,” but the suggestion was dropped during the drafting process. Courts over the years have struck down similar legislative demands for the teaching of creationism.

Rep. Fiscus just keeps coming back with ever more watered-down versions of his original “intelligent design” bill, but he’s being denied again.

Denied! It’s a crime! If you can’t teach creationism to kids in Montana, where in tarnation can you teach it? Besides Turkey, I mean.

(By the way, Rep. Clayton Fiscus has an excellent website that hasn’t evolved much since about 1997.)