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NEWS
Montana coronavirus report
The latest news and information on the coronavirus pandemic in Montana, including updated case count maps and original in-depth reporting.
Local control takes a hit
For some opponents, the low-key battle over LR-130 — the no-local-gun-control legislative referendum — is done. For others, work lies ahead, and frustration lingers.
COVID and the Capitol
This week’s leadership caucuses at the Montana Capitol raised the specter of flouted health directives, but rules for the upcoming session remain to be set.
Newly elected lawmakers pick leaders for 2021 session
Newly elected Republican legislative leaders promised to help colleagues advance an agenda they said has long been stymied by Democratic governors.
Updated: Gianforte begins transition with advisory appointments
Gov.-elect Greg Gianforte enlists dozens of Montanans to help plan a COVID-19 response and pick new leadership for state agencies as he prepares his transition into office.
Bullock announces new COVID restrictions
Gov. Steve Bullock has announced new public health orders, including limits on gathering sizes and restaurant and bar operations, in response to a continued surge of new COVID-19 infections in Montana.
Bullock says cuts aren’t necessary to balance the state budget
The outgoing Democratic governor’s final budget proposal specifies no cuts and no tax increases — and throws down a gauntlet for Republican Gov.-elect Gianforte, who has pledged to lower taxes.
State reaches settlement with tobacco industry
A multi-year standoff between major tobacco companies and the state of Montana appears to be coming to a close after Attorney General Tim Fox on Monday announced a substantial settlement with tobacco industry defendants and a guarantee of future payments to the state totaling more than $100 million.
‘We are struggling’
On two separate occasions in recent weeks, the Flathead City-County Health Board has rejected proposals to limit indoor public gatherings to 500 people.
Phase none
As COVID-19 continues to spread uncontrolled across Montana, four hospitals are operating beyond their capacity, schools and businesses are closing and officials are pleading for people to follow public health guidance.
Politicos explain Montana’s red wave
In interviews with Montana Free Press, nearly a dozen elected officials, campaign strategists, and political analysts described what they believe are the reasons behind the results, citing the popularity of President Trump and national attacks against the Democratic Party and the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic fallout and the ways in which the virus complicated campaign strategy.
How will the GOP spend its mandate?
With the governor’s office and an expanded legislative majority, Republicans will be in the driver’s seat come the 2021 Montana Legislature. But the party’s leaders say they’re still honing their agenda.
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