Montana Budget and Policy Center

Federal officials released the final rules for Medicaid requirements this week. Hiding among the nearly 400 pages of regulations is a significant change that could make it harder for Montanans to stay on the public health insurance program.

Some state Medicaid services are on the chopping block due to a budget shortfall. The state health department estimates it will need at least another $7 million, but isn’t saying what services might be cut.

State health officials remain committed to a plan for implementing work requirements and other major changes to Medicaid months before a federal deadline. Federal officials aren’t expected to release detailed guidance until June, raising concerns about whether the state's plan is feasible.

Montana health officials will ask federal regulators to approve work requirements for Montanans on Medicaid expansion. The state also wants enrollees to pay premiums and co-payments for doctor visits.

The rise in property taxes and rent is top of mind for Montanans across the state. Legislators are mulling over a variety of fixes.

Gov. Greg Gianforte is proposing a nearly $18 billion budget to keep Montana’s government up and running over the next two years. The state is projected to continue to bring in strong revenues. Gianforte aims to invest in a few big projects, while cutting taxes. MTPR’s Shaylee Ragar joined Corin Cates-Carney to talk through the big ticket items.

Montana’s housing market is the least affordable in the country. That’s according to data analysis by the National Association of Realtors.

Montana workers earning minimum wage will see a raise above $10 an hour starting January 1, and will keep more of their earnings starting next year.

Montana tribes are closer to gaining more authority in a state program designed to preserve Indigenous languages.

The Montana state health department said it’s opting out of a free pandemic-era program to provide nutrition assistance to kids this year, citing the administrative burden.