Matt Regier

With the legislative session over, lawmakers are beginning to look at how to solve some of the state’s biggest issues. They'll study competitive bidding for government contracts, and which branch of government should estimate the cost of a proposed law, among other issues.

Five legislators from around the Hi-Line recently gathered for a town hall to discuss the 2025 legislative session. The bipartisan group of two state senators and three House representatives faced a room of around 50 constituents in Havre.

Two Republican Senate leaders continue to battle allegations of ethics violations. The governor signs two anti-trans bills into law. The House takes up the main budget bill. A Kalispell Republican loses his effort to name Jesus the ruler of all nations. And the late, great journalist Chuck Johnson is honored at the Capitol.

Legislative auditors concluded the president of the state Senate did not waste government resources or abuse his power when he contracted outside counsel for legislative work.

The 69th Legislature is starting Week 11 today. Republican Senate President Matt Regier joins the podcast.

Legislators have voted forward bills on property tax relief, Medicaid expansion, judicial oversight and more.

Another state senator faces an ethics investigation. A state rep. suddenly resigns. A Missoula senator pleads guilty to a DUI. And a controversial "bathroom bill" awaits the governor's signature.

The Montana Senate Thursday directed legislative auditors to analyze taxpayer-funded contracts signed by the chamber’s president.

Senate Republicans continue to split votes on key issues; Medicaid expansion is well on its way to passage; Montana's congressional delegation isn't concerned — yet — about federal workers being fired; And Montana public school classrooms won't be displaying the Ten Commandments.

Threatened cuts to federal funding have Montana organizations anxious. The state Senate gears up for an ethics investigation. Medicaid expansion bills advance. The Democratic party is looking for a new leader. And state workers — and legislators — would get a pay raise under a proposed new pay plan.