The first results from Montana’s new standardized test show fewer than half of elementary-school students statewide are meeting math, reading and writing standards. The first year of testing had a rocky rollout.

A new commission charged with evaluating the state’s judges met for the first time Wednesday. Its conception was part of a broader push by GOP lawmakers to further regulate the judicial branch.

A flag's primary purpose is to be recognized from a distance. That means few colors, no lettering and a clear distinction from other flags. Ideally, it should be simple enough for a child to draw it from memory. So, how did Montana end up with such a complicated flag? Learn more in this episode of The Big Why.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation held its 106th annual conference this week. Farmers gathered to vote on how their organization should lobby on state and federal issues.

A proposed ballot initiative to keep Montana’s judicial elections nonpartisan is advancing after the state Supreme Court ruled that the attorney general overstepped by rewriting the measure.

Havre is launching a rebrand in an effort to draw in more travelers. It’s part of a state-funded effort to stimulate rural tourism.

Environmental groups and other nonprofits have filed a formal complaint about data centers with state utility regulators. The groups are asking the Public Service Commission to ensure NorthWestern Energy customers do not subsidize the cost of powering data centers.

Missoula County residents are trying to prevent a gravel pit from opening along the Blackfoot River. State lawmakers made it easier for local officials to approve projects like these.

State auditors are studying how efficiently the state education department sends out funding to schools. The study is part of an effort to reform how the state funds education.

A nonprofit nature reserve in Montana is suing the state. American Prairie argues the state needs to decide whether to grant their six-year-old request for permits to graze bison on state lands.