Latest Government Reporting

DPHHS director spells out sweeping reorganization for lawmakers

Director Adam Meier said changes in leadership will streamline the department’s work and improve communication with stakeholders.

In testimony before lawmakers on the interim budget committee that oversees DPHHS, Director Adam Meier said the organizational changes are meant to increase efficiency and improve communications with external stakeholders.

by Mara Silvers

State revises marijuana advertising rules

Responding to industry pushback, the Department of Revenue loosens restrictions on dispensary marketing.

Under the new rules, dispensaries will be able to promote their business via advertising and market their brand. However, dispensaries may not specifically advertise marijuana products except in online ads. The state has also eliminated what some dispensary owners believe was a burdensome set of rules that would have required dispensaries and other marijuana-related businesses to display a lengthy warning about the drug.

by Justin Franz

Gianforte budget director to step down after nine months

The governor’s office said Tuesday that Budget Director Kurt Alme is resigning to alleviate the strain of routine commuting to Helena from his home in Billings. His replacement will be longtime lawmaker Ryan Osmundson, R-Buffalo.

The governor’s office said Tuesday that Budget Director Kurt Alme is resigning to alleviate the strain of routine commuting to Helena from his home in Billings. His replacement will be longtime lawmaker Ryan Osmundson, R-Buffalo.

by Eric Dietrich

MORE GOVERNMENT REPORTING

Knudsen joins trans lawsuits in Tennessee and Arkansas

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has joined a Tennessee lawsuit challenging federal anti-discrimination protections for transgender student athletes. It’s not the first time he’s signed on to support out-of-state litigation involving trans rights this summer.

by Alex Sakariassen

How Austin Knudsen is flipping the script of attorney general

Montana Free Press interviewed more than a dozen former Department of Justice attorneys and legal observers. Some described Knudsen’s actions toward the judiciary as “breathtaking” and “embarrassing” for the legal profession. Others said the office’s tactics seem intentionally designed to undermine Montana’s democratic institutions. Knudsen says he’s doing what voters expect of him.

by Mara Silvers

The Session podcast

What we’re looking forward to in week 17 of the Montana Legislature: last-minute legislation and maneuvering.

by MTFP Staff

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MORE GOVERNMENT REPORTING

Vaccine mandates: truth, fiction, and unknowns

Legislative proceedings stoked questions and concerns about COVID-19 vaccine requirements in Montana. Who is — and who isn’t — mandating vaccination, how strict are those policies, and how might HB 702 muddy the mix?

FWP: New bison herds on hold

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ decision to settle a lawsuit brought by United Property Owners of Montana forecasts a major shift in the state’s bison management approach under Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte.

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