Montana Politics

Montanans could see their power bills spike this year, but by how much is still up for debate. Utility regulators Tuesday heard public comment on NorthWestern Energy's latest request to hike electricity rates. The hearings are scheduled to run through June 20.

The state's largest utility company is now charging customers 17 percent more for electricity. It made that price bump without the approval of state regulators. Montana Free Press' Amanda Eggert sat down with MTPR's Ellis Juhlin to talk about her reporting on the change.

President Donald Trump is asking Congress to claw back roughly $9.4 billion from foreign aid programs and public news broadcasters. Montana’s federal representatives are voicing their support.

Montana’s congressional delegates in the U.S. House voted in favor of a massive spending and tax package proposed by President Donald Trump.

A long-standing argument over funding for law enforcement on the Flathead Reservation is over, for now. Gov. Greg Gianforte has signed off on funding to help Lake County and tribal officials transition to a long-term plan.

A Missoula District Court judge ruled that a ban on gender-affirming care for youths is unconstitutional. Republicans in the state Legislature passed the law in 2023, saying they need to protect youths from experimental treatment.

Montana's U.S. Reps. Ryan Zinke and Troy Downing have joined a new bipartisan caucus dedicated to protecting the country’s public lands. The lawmakers announced the initiative in Washington D.C. on May 7.

Gov. Greg Gianforte was in Deer Lodge Tuesday to celebrate construction of new housing units at the Montana State Prison.

The Best Beginnings Scholarship Program offers Montana families financial support for child care costs. But, cultural differences make it difficult for some tribal communities to qualify for the program.

Vermont U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders brought his Fighting Oligarchy tour to Missoula on Wednesday. Around 9,000 people filled the University of Montana Adams Center and overflowed outside. Montana Public Radio’s Edward O'Brien spoke with the Senator after his speech.