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Polystyrene phase-out bill draws bipartisan support at legislature Polystyrene phase-out bill draws bipartisan support at legislature

By Jeremy Drake, MT Plastic Free House Bill (HB) 477, to phase out single-use expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam food containers across Montana, has passed both the House and Senate with strong bipartisan support and backing from a diverse coalition of stakeholders. The bill, aimed at protecting public health, reducing litter, and supporting agricultural and timber business opportunities, is now before Governor Greg Gianforte. Since first introducing an EPS phase-out bill in 2019, sponsor Representative Marilyn Marler, D-Missoula, has worked to address lawmakers’ concerns and craft a phase-out that balances the health of Montanans and our natural environment with economic opportu...


Moms: DPHHS support available during Maternal Mental Health Month and all year long

News from DPHHS MONTANA — In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month in May, the Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) reminds mothers that the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides free, confidential assistance before, during, and after pregnancy.   “In Mont...


Governor breaks ground on $156M infrastructure investment at MT State Prison Governor breaks ground on $156M infrastructure investment at MT State Prison

News from the office of Governor Gianforte DEER LODGE - Governor Greg Gianforte recently joined Montana Department of Corrections (DOC) Director Brian Gootkin to break ground on a $156 million infrastructure investment at the Montana State Prison (MSP). “After decades of previous administration...


Robbing the poor to pay the rich

News from Andrew Useche, House Democrats Communications Director  HELENA — Montana Republicans affirmed their commitment recently to transforming Montana into a playground for the wealthy when the state’s multi-millionaire Governor Greg Gianforte signed HB 337. HB 337 lowers Montana&rsq...


Governor secures tax cut for MT businesses Governor secures tax cut for MT businesses

News from the office of Governor Gianforte HELENA ­­- Joining Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) Commissioner Sarah Swanson, Governor Greg Gianforte recently celebrated a $250 million tax cut for businesses. “As a businessman, I know how high taxes can hinder the ability o...


DPHHS launches $6.5M grant program

MONTANA — Funding will help support counties and municipalities as they develop, enhance, and expand forensic stabilization services in local detention centers Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Charlie Brereton recently announced the agency is now accepting proposals on...


Northwestern rate case delayed

Dates and information for NorthWestern Energy’s rate case public hearings but the Public Service Commission (PSC) has delayed public notices on opportunities for public hearings or comments following breaking news of a settlement with the Montana Consumer Advocate. Enviro groups will look into this set...


Groundbreaking ‘Right to Compute’ legislation signed into law 

News from Kyle Schmauch, MT Senate Republicans HELENA — An innovative and groundbreaking technology bill sponsored by Senator Daniel Zolnikov, R-Billings, has been signed into law.  Senate Bill 212, the “Right to Compute Act,” protects Montanans fundamental free speech and prop...


Montana’s unemployment rate remains below 3% for six consecutive months 

News from the office of Governor Gianforte HELENA — Montana’s unemployment rate fell slightly to 2.7% in March, marking the sixth consecutive month of unemployment below 3%.  Total employment (which includes payroll, agricultural, and self-employed workers) decreased slightly in Marc...


Gianforte visits White House to celebrate executive orders to restore coal industry Gianforte visits White House to celebrate executive orders to restore coal industry

News from the office of Governor Gianforte WASHINGTON, D.C. – Joining President Donald J. Trump at the White House, Governor Greg Gianforte today celebrated executive orders signed by the president aimed at unleashing American energy. “After years of Joe Biden picking winners and losers, ...


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