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Governor Gianforte Seeks Public Input on Public Service Commission Applicants

Governor Gianforte Seeks Public Input on Public Service Commission Applicants

Governor Greg Gianforte of Montana is inviting public comments on applicants for a temporary appointment to the Public Service Commission (PSC). The governor has received applications from several Montanans, including Kirk A. Bushman, Nicholas R. Fitzmaurice, Nicholas A. Loos, John E. Prinkki, and David E. Wanzenried. The public is encouraged to submit letters of support or comments by August 20, 2026. These submissions will be publicly available and posted online. This initiative is part of the governor's efforts to ensure transparency and public involvement in the selection process for the PSC, which plays a crucial role in regulating utilities and ensuring fair practices in the state.
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Montana Arts Council Honors Six with 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards

Montana Arts Council Honors Six with 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards

Montana Arts Council Honors Six with 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards
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Governor Gianforte Declares Disaster in Glasgow Following Severe Flooding

Governor Gianforte Declares Disaster in Glasgow Following Severe Flooding

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte has declared a disaster in the city of Glasgow, Valley County, after severe flash flooding over the July 4th weekend. The flooding, caused by multiple slow-moving thunderstorms, resulted in intense rainfall exceeding two inches per hour. This natural disaster has significantly damaged public infrastructure, local businesses, and roads. The disaster declaration allows for the use of state resources and general funds to address the immediate needs arising from the flooding. It also facilitates coordination among the state, county, and city to assess the damage and begin necessary repairs. The Mayor of Glasgow had previously declared a local disaster on July 23, 2026, but the extent of the damage surpassed the financial capabilities of the city and county.
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Governor Gianforte Mobilizes Montana National Guard to Assist Washington Wildfire Efforts

Governor Gianforte Mobilizes Montana National Guard to Assist Washington Wildfire Efforts

Governor Greg Gianforte of Montana has issued an executive order to deploy members of the Montana National Guard to assist in combating wildfires in Washington state. The decision comes as Washington faces severe wildfire conditions, particularly in Spokane, where over 10,000 acres have been burned, more than 700 structures destroyed, and approximately 65,000 people displaced. Gianforte emphasized that this deployment will not affect Montana's ability to manage its own fire activities, as the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation remains prepared to handle any fire outbreaks within the state. Brigadier General Trent Gibson, Adjutant General of Montana, expressed pride in supporting neighboring states during such critical times.
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USDA Designates Five Montana Counties as Drought Disaster Areas

USDA Designates Five Montana Counties as Drought Disaster Areas

Governor Greg Gianforte announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated five Montana counties as primary natural disaster areas due to severe drought conditions. The affected counties are Dawson, Richland, Roosevelt, Sheridan, and Wibaux. This designation allows farmers in these areas to apply for emergency loans to mitigate the impact of the drought. The drought conditions were assessed using the U.S. Drought Monitor, which categorized the impact as severe or extreme, affecting water availability for livestock and crop viability.
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Florida Groups Advocate for Utility Reform Amid Rising Electric Bills

Florida Groups Advocate for Utility Reform Amid Rising Electric Bills

In Florida, community groups are advocating for utility reform as residents face significant increases in electric bills. According to reports, the average annual cost for customers has risen by over $900, more than triple the rate of inflation. This increase is attributed to rate hikes approved by the Public Service Commission for investor-owned utilities like Tampa Electric, Duke Energy, and Florida Power and Light. The rising costs have prompted protests and calls for reform, as many Floridians struggle with some of the highest electricity bills in the nation. The groups argue that current utility practices prioritize corporate interests over consumer protection, leading to financial strain for households.
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Montana Faces Hazy Conditions Due to Wildfire Smoke, Affecting Air Quality

Montana Faces Hazy Conditions Due to Wildfire Smoke, Affecting Air Quality

Montana is experiencing hazy and smoky conditions due to wildfire smoke, which is expected to persist for at least a week. An upper-level ridge is controlling the weather, leading to mostly sunny skies and warm temperatures. However, the smoke is causing reduced visibility and poor air quality, particularly in western, southwestern, and central Montana. The air quality is categorized as 'moderate' or 'unhealthy for sensitive groups.' A weak cold front is expected to pass through north-central Montana, which may help clear some of the smoke. A RED FLAG WARNING is in effect for parts of eastern Montana, and a LAKE WIND ADVISORY is in place for Fort Peck Lake.
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Governor Gianforte Highlights Growth of Montana's High-Tech Industry

Governor Gianforte Highlights Growth of Montana's High-Tech Industry

Governor Gianforte Highlights Growth of Montana's High-Tech Industry
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Montana Democratic Senate Strategy Faces Challenges Amid Candidate Dispute

Montana Democratic Senate Strategy Faces Challenges Amid Candidate Dispute

The Democratic strategy to support independent candidates in red states is facing difficulties in Montana. Alani Bankhead, the Democratic nominee for Montana's U.S. Senate seat, refuses to withdraw from the race despite pressure from party leaders who favor independent candidate Seth Bodnar. Bodnar, who has more financial backing and support from senior Democrats, is seen as a stronger contender against Republican candidate Kurt Alme. The Democratic Party's attempt to clear the path for Bodnar has led to internal conflicts and legal discussions about potentially leaving the Democratic line on the ballot empty if Bankhead steps down. This strategy, known as 'disappear-the-Democrat,' has been more successful in other states but is proving contentious in Montana.
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Yellowstone County Data Center Petition Faces Deadline Controversy

Yellowstone County Data Center Petition Faces Deadline Controversy

A petition in Yellowstone County, Montana, aimed at requiring voter approval for data center developments, has been sidelined due to a change in the signature submission deadline. Initially, petitioners were informed they had until August 12 to gather signatures, but a memo from the county attorney's office revealed the deadline was actually July 13. This change was prompted by a state statute pointed out by data center developer Quantica Infrastructure. The petition, led by Kassi Solberg, sought to place the issue on the November ballot. Attorney Brian Miller, working with Solberg, argues that the deadline change is unconstitutional and plans to challenge it in court.
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HRDC Reports 25% Decline in Bozeman Homeless Population Due to Expanded Services

HRDC Reports 25% Decline in Bozeman Homeless Population Due to Expanded Services

The Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) in Bozeman, Montana, has reported a 25% decrease in the city's homeless population over the past year. This decline is attributed to the expansion of community services and increased shelter capacity. HRDC's Homeward Point now accommodates up to 130 people nightly, and other community partners like Haven and Family Promise provide additional support. The focus of these efforts is not only on providing temporary shelter but also on rehousing individuals. In 2024, HRDC and the Regional Housing Coalition helped produce or preserve over 750 affordable homes, with plans for an additional 1,300 homes. The goal is to reduce the duration of homelessness to less than 30 days.
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Montana DEQ Issues Air Quality Alert Amid Expanding Wildfires

Montana DEQ Issues Air Quality Alert Amid Expanding Wildfires

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued an air quality alert for several counties, including Beaverhead, Granite, and Missoula, due to expanding wildfires across the region. Despite cooler temperatures, fires in the Pioneer Mountains and the Bitterroot Mountains have grown significantly, contributing to smoky conditions. The Bobcat Lakes and Sand Creek Fires are among the most active, each exceeding 1,000 acres. The DEQ warns that warming temperatures, gusty winds, and low humidity could exacerbate fire behavior, potentially leading to critical fire weather conditions.