{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", party = \"Republican\" and state = \"MT\" sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downing-honors-denton-educator-ty-neal-september-montana-innovator", "Congressman Downing Honors Denton Educator Ty Neal as September \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Ty Neal as a \"Montana Innovator\" for the month of September. Conducted in partnership with the Montana 250th Commission, the initiative highlights outstanding Montanans ahead of America's 250th anniversary. Each month features a different theme, with September recognizing achievements in education and academia.\n\nRead the full recognition below:\n\n\"This month, I am proud to recognize Ty Neal, an agricultural mechanics teacher at Denton Public Schools who is preparing Montana students for careers in the skilled trades.\n\nTy was recently named a winner of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, a national honor that reflects the time, skill, and dedication he brings to his classroom and shop.\n\nTy gives his students the opportunity to build real, hands-on skills they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. The skilled trades are essential to Montana. They keep our equipment running and help keep our communities strong.\n\nEvery student who leaves Ty's classroom with practical experience and confidence is a reflection of his work. He is not simply teaching students how to use tools. He is helping give them a pathway to a good-paying job and a future here in Montana.\n\nThis award will also bring new resources to Denton's skilled trades program, creating even more opportunities for students in the years ahead.\n\nMontana needs teachers like Ty Neal, and Denton Public Schools is fortunate to have him. It is my honor to recognize Ty as a Montana Innovator who represents the very best of education in our state.\"", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-bipartisan-bill-expand-capital-access-rural-job-creators-passes", "DOWNING\u2019S BIPARTISAN BILL TO EXPAND CAPITAL ACCESS FOR RURAL JOB CREATORS PASSES SENATE, HEADS TO PRESIDENT\u2019S DESK", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 1190, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s bipartisan Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act. The legislation would help rural small businesses overcome barriers to accessing capital.\n\nThe bill updates the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by requiring the SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to report annually on the unique challenges rural businesses face when seeking investment. These reports will give Congress better information as it considers ways to improve access to capital for rural job creators.\n\n\u201cRural small businesses are essential to communities across Montana, but too many still face unnecessary barriers when trying to access capital,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud of our legislation, which will help make sure rural businesses are no longer overlooked when Congress considers how to expand access to capital and support job creation.\u201d\n\n\"Rural small businesses shouldn\u2019t have to work twice as hard just because of their ZIP code,\u201d said Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05), the bill\u2019s co-lead. \u201cThe Senate passing this bill gets us one step closer to changing that. Rural entrepreneurs have the ideas and the hustle. They deserve a fair shot to grow them into something bigger.\"\n\nSenator John Kennedy (R-LA.) led the U.S. Senate companion bill to passage.\n\n\u201cRural small businesses are the backbone of many communities across America, but too many face challenges accessing capital. I\u2019m glad the Senate passed our bill to make sure Congress understands those challenges and help rural job creators grow their businesses, create jobs and serve their communities,\u201d said Senator Kennedy.\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation is required to identify problems that small businesses face when securing access to capital and submit an annual report to Congress.\n\nCurrently, the Office\u2019s list of applicable entities are minority-owned, women-owned, and disaster-stricken small businesses.\n\nThis legislation would require the SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to add rural small businesses to its list of applicable entities.", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-0", "CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION SIGNED INTO LAW BY PRESIDENT TRUMP", "2026-09-28", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 President Trump signed H.R. 7250 into law, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s legislation extending authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The law allows critical water infrastructure projects across northeastern Montana to continue moving forward.\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide safe and reliable municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Rural Water System. Together, these systems serve tribal and non-tribal communities across Roosevelt, Sheridan, Daniels, and Valley counties.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation\u2019s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure serving the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities through December 2028.\n\n\"I\u2019m proud that the President has signed my bill, H.R. 7250, into law. This legislation will help keep critical water projects moving forward and provide greater certainty for families and communities across northeastern Montana,\" said Congressman Downing. \"Reliable water infrastructure is essential to the future of this region. I\u2019m grateful to the Montana delegation for working together to get this bill through Congress and signed into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is a major win for the Treasure State. Montanans should never have to worry about whether or not their water is safe to drink. Now that President Trump has signed our bill into law, we\u2019ll be able to continue critical construction on water infrastructure on the Fort Peck reservation and throughout the northeast region. I\u2019m grateful for everyone who helped get this bill across the finish line and look forward to seeing the impacts this will have for the health and future of our communities,\u201d said Senator Steve Daines.\n\n\u201cClean, reliable water is a basic necessity, and Montanans in our rural and tribal communities deserve nothing less. I\u2019m proud to see this commonsense bill cross the finish line, and I thank President Trump for signing it into law so we can keep critical water projects moving forward in Fort Peck and across northeast Montana,\u201d said Senator Tim Sheehy.\n\nHouse Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing\u2019s work to strengthen water infrastructure in northeastern Montana.\n\n\u201cWhere reliable water flows, opportunity and prosperity follow. H.R. 7250 reauthorizes the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System, helping ensure families, farmers, and businesses in northeastern Montana continue to have access to dependable water supplies,\" said Chairman Westerman. \u201cI commend Rep. Downing for his commitment to strengthening critical water infrastructure and supporting Montana\u2019s future.\u201d\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-29T11:07:12Z", "2026-09-29T11:08:49Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act", "CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL CROW TRIBE WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT AMENDMENTS ACT PASSES BOTH CHAMBERS OF CONGRESS, HEADS TO PRESIDENT\u2019S DESK", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the U.S. Senate. Senator Steve Daines spearheaded the bill in the Senate, while Congressman Troy Downing championed it in the House of Representatives. The legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward.\n\nThe original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana. It authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system.\n\nS. 240 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation.\n\nIn addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation.\n\n\u201cToday, S. 240, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the U.S. Senate. This legislation gives the Crow Tribe greater flexibility to develop critical water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects moving forward on the reservation. We must continue honoring our commitments to the Crow Tribe and strengthening Montana\u2019s water infrastructure,\" said Congressman Downing. \"Thank you to Senator Daines for leading this bill in the Senate and sending it to the President\u2019s desk.\"\n\n\u201cThis bill is a necessity for the Crow Tribe and surrounding communities and will ensure the tribe has the resources they need to deliver safe, reliable access to clean water to the reservation and complete a hydropower project to bring new baseload generation to the region. I\u2019m grateful for Representative Downing\u2019s work to get this passed in the House and am thrilled to see it pass the Senate- let\u2019s get it across the finish line!\u201d said Senator Steve Daines.\n\n\u201cThe federal government must ensure tribal water settlements work as intended. S. 240 gives the Crow Tribe greater flexibility to complete critical drinking water and irrigation projects while extending its exclusive right to pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. I commend Senator Daines and Rep. Downing for championing a practical solution that strengthens tribal self-determination and supports long-term economic growth on the Crow Reservation,\u201d said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman.\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-op-ed-washington-examiner-inherit-million-you-can-invest-have", "ICYMI: DOWNING OP-ED IN THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER: Inherit a million? You can invest. Have an economics doctorate? The SEC says you\u2019re too dumb", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Congressman Troy Downing penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting his new bill, H.R.9574, The Informed Investor Access Act. The legislation would break down barriers to capital markets by creating a new route to accredited-investor status for a specific transaction when an individual receives personalized investment advice or a recommendation from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.\n\nRead the Washington Examiner op-edHERE.\n\nSeptember 22, 2026\n\nAre some people simply not rich enough to build the American dream?\n\nAmerica\u2019s capital markets are the most dynamic in the world. They are ripe with opportunity. Our nation\u2019s business ecosystem is better because of them.\n\nThe American dream of entrepreneurship and prosperity is possible through our robust capital markets. Too many people are locked out of important parts of those markets for one simple reason: They are not rich enough.\n\nMost investors can only directly invest in publicly traded companies, which make up less than 1% of all U.S. businesses. They have virtually no access to nonpublic, or private, investment opportunities. In other words, they have no access to investments that help the rich get richer.\n\nThe number of publicly available stock investment options has declined by nearly 50% since the 1990s, which means fewer investment opportunities for hardworking Montanans. That is the effect of the outdated \u201caccredited investor\u201d framework.\n\nPublicly traded companies are subject to the highest degree of disclosure requirements from the Securities and Exchange Commission. The strict requirements, along with their direct costs to the investor, create a transparent but also very expensive option, which is why everyone has access.\n\nNonpublic companies are not subject to these same rules, so the federal government has long held that only \u201csophisticated\u201d investors are allowed to participate in these markets. The problem is the false equivalency between sophistication and wealth. This foreclosure on access by anyone but the wealthiest among us is one reason the rich get richer and ordinary people are often left behind.\n\nUnder current SEC rules, anyone can access the private markets by being an accredited investor, which is defined by having more than $1 million in net worth, not including one\u2019s residence, or by earning more than $200,000 per year for two consecutive years. The rules include other qualifications, but for most people, wealth remains the gatekeeper.\n\nThis leaves many \u201cordinary\u201d people on the sidelines \u2014 many of whom understand the risks of investing and have built strong portfolios or financial plans either independently or with a financial adviser. A high net worth does not automatically make someone a knowledgeable investor, just as falling below an arbitrary threshold does not make someone incapable of understanding risk. In other words, a person who inherits $1 million but has no idea about how money works may qualify, but someone with a doctorate in economics with only $100,000 to invest is generally not qualified.\n\nI have seen our capital markets from nearly every angle. I began my career as an educator and research scientist before founding a tech company that later merged with Yahoo. I went on to build multiple businesses, structure alternative investments, and raise capital through independent broker-dealers. Later, as Montana state auditor and commissioner of securities and insurance, I served as our state\u2019s chief securities regulator. Today, I serve on the House Financial Services Committee.\n\nThose experiences taught me that capital formation and investor protection should not be seen as competing goals. Well-designed rules can advance both.\n\nThat is why I introduced the Informed Investor Access Act. My legislation would create a new route to accredited-investor status for a specific transaction when someone receives personalized investment advice or a recommendation from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.\n\nThis is not an invitation to throw open the doors without guardrails. Registered investment advisers are bound by a fiduciary duty, and broker-dealers must comply with Regulation Best Interest. These professionals are required to consider a client\u2019s financial circumstances and risk tolerance when making recommendations.\n\nThe current framework creates a self-reinforcing barrier: Often, people are required to meet the wealth threshold to access investments that may help them build wealth. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs in private businesses lose potential sources of capital that could help them innovate and expand.\n\nAccess must improve on both sides of the marketplace. I recently led a congressional letter urging SEC Chairman Paul Atkins to finalize the commission\u2019s Registered Offering Reform proposal.\n\nAmong its provisions, the proposal would remove duplicative state registration and qualification reviews for certain public companies, reducing unnecessary costs while maintaining disclosure and anti-fraud protections.\n\nThis matters across the country, but especially in rural states such as Montana. Entrepreneurs and growing businesses should not be forced to move their business to a major financial center to find capital. Likewise, Montanans who work, save, and plan responsibly should not be excluded from considering an investment simply because they don\u2019t meet the wealth threshold.\n\nModernizing these rules does not guarantee returns, eliminate risk, or make every investment suitable. Nor should it. These are investments without training wheels, and they should be carefully scrutinized.\n\nGiving everyday people access gives them an opportunity to make informed choices with professional guidance, while allowing businesses to reach a broader pool of potential investors.\n\nBuilding wealth should not be reserved for those who were given a head start or who are already wealthy. Congress and the SEC can preserve strong protections while replacing outdated barriers with standards that recognize individual circumstances. This is how we strengthen capital formation in America and keep America\u2019s markets the strongest in the world.", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization", "CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES BOTH CHAMBERS OF CONGRESS", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 7250, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s legislation to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk, allowing critical water infrastructure projects across northeastern Montana to continue moving forward. H.R. 7250 amends the existing authorization by extending its expiration from 2026 to 2028.\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide safe and reliable municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Rural Water System. Together, these systems serve tribal and non-tribal communities across Roosevelt, Sheridan, Daniels, and Valley counties.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation\u2019s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure serving the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities through December 2028.\n\n\u201cAccess to clean, reliable water is essential for families and communities across northeastern Montana,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud the Senate passed my bill to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System after the House approved it earlier this year. This legislation is now headed to the President\u2019s desk and will help keep critical water infrastructure projects moving forward for the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities.\n\n\u201cThis is huge news for northeast Montana! Access to safe and reliable water infrastructure is an absolute necessity, and reauthorizing the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act will help provide clean water for Montana communities. Thank you Representative Downing for your work to get this through the U.S. House- now let\u2019s get it signed into law!\u201d said U.S. Senator Steve Daines.\n\nHouse Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing\u2019s work to strengthen water infrastructure in northeastern Montana.\n\n\u201cWhere reliable water flows, opportunity and prosperity follow. H.R. 7250 reauthorizes the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System, helping ensure families, farmers and businesses in northeastern Montana continue to have access to dependable water supplies,\" said Chairman Westerman. \u201cI commend Rep. Downing for his commitment to strengthening critical water infrastructure and supporting Montana\u2019s future.\n\nRead the bill HERE.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act-0", "CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S CROW TRIBE WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT AMENDMENTS ACT PASSES HOUSE", "2026-09-16", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 240, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, legislation led by Senator Steve Daines in the Senate and championed by Congressman Troy Downing in the House. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk.\n\nThe legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward.\n\nThe original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana and authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system.\n\nS. 240 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation.\n\nIn addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation.\n\n\u201cAccess to clean and reliable water is critical for the Crow Tribe and the communities it serves,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud the House passed this legislation and sent it to the President\u2019s desk. I want to thank Senator Daines for leading this effort in the Senate and helping move it across the finish line. The bill gives the Tribe greater flexibility to develop water and wastewater projects that meet local needs, while also allowing for hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. This bipartisan legislation honors our commitments to the Crow Tribe and invests in Montana\u2019s future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe federal government must ensure tribal water settlements work as intended. S. 240 gives the Crow Tribe greater flexibility to complete critical drinking water and irrigation projects while extending its exclusive right to pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. I commend Senator Daines and Rep. Downing for championing a practical solution that strengthens tribal self-determination and supports long-term economic growth on the Crow Reservation,\u201d said House Committee of Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman.\n\nRead the bill HERE.", 1, "2026-09-17T09:52:05Z", "2026-09-17T09:53:00Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-op-ed-washington-reporter-affordable-care-act-need-reform", "ICYMI: DOWNING OP-ED IN THE WASHINGTON REPORTER \u2014 THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT IS IN NEED OF REFORM", "2026-09-14", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) penned an op-ed in the Washington Reporter on the need to reform the Affordable Care Act. Read the full op-ed HERE.\n\n\"Access to affordable health care is one of the most critical issues facing Montana today. The Affordable Care Act needs reform. Costs keep rising, fewer healthy people are staying in the market, and coverage gets more expensive every year.\n\nWhen I was Montana\u2019s Insurance Commissioner, I oversaw the rate filings for the plans sold in our state, year after year. My job was to make sure premiums were actuarially sound. It is a delicate balance between what it costs to deliver care, reimbursement rates for providers, and premiums families can afford to pay. I worked hard to understand all sides of that equation.\n\nYou have probably heard some say that insurance premiums in Montana increased due to Congress not extending the enhanced premium tax credits and allowing them to expire. Those credits were a temporary fix passed during the COVID pandemic, aimed at a small set of the individual market and never meant to last beyond the COVID crisis. These insurance company credits expired, as designed.\n\nIn reality, extending these credits would not have affected most Montanans and would have moved the Montana premiums by only single digits, and only for a small part of our market. The increases we saw across the board this year came from a much larger and older problem.\n\nThat problem is adverse selection. In other words, premiums go up every year, and every year some people decide the coverage is no longer worth the cost.\n\nThose who leave the market are often younger and healthier. When they leave, the concentration of higher-cost individuals gets larger, the costs to the insurer rise, and premiums rise for everyone still paying for the plan.\n\nYoung, healthy Montanans increasingly do not see value in the coverage they are being asked to buy at the prices available. We need to win them back with coverage that is worth the price.\n\nWe cannot subsidize ourselves out of this underlying problem.\n\nPremiums also climb because of the rising cost of care. Prescription drugs alone now account for more than 25 percent of every premium dollar. That is a huge number. A prescription drug can pass through multiple layers of middlemen before it reaches the patient, with costs and rebates often hidden along the way.\n\nIn my first legislative session as Insurance Commissioner, my office sponsored the Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) Transparency Act, carried by Senator Greg Hertz, to make those PBMs report their costs, rebates, and fees. There is more to do, and most of it has to happen at the federal level. Regarding PBMs, federal ERISA preemption, which governs employer health plans, is one area we need to look at closely, so states have more power to regulate the entire PBM market rather than just a subset.\n\nOne of the clearest places to start is the 340B program. It is a critical source of affordable medication for many of our rural hospitals and the patients they serve. We need to protect this program for the providers and patients who depend on it. We also need reforms that prevent abuse and ensure the program serves the patients and providers it was designed to help. It is a significant program, and taxpayers deserve accountability.\n\nI make it a point to visit as many of our critical access hospitals and rural clinics as I can. Some of them get as much as 80 percent of their income from Medicare and Medicaid, which tells you how much those programs matter in rural Montana.\n\nTwo of the biggest challenges I hear about are workforce shortages and housing. Time and again, a facility gets good applicants who cannot find a place to live and withdraw their applications.\n\nIn many rural communities, there simply are not enough workers to fill critical health care jobs. Last year, Congress set aside $50 billion for rural health transformation, and Montana was one of the largest recipients in the country. That investment is good for Montana, but it also reflects the scale of the challenge facing rural health care.\n\nThere is no single fix here, but there are good ideas we need to put to work. First, we should expand Health Savings Accounts; let people put more into them, and let them use the money for premiums, deductibles, direct primary care, and healthy living, not just for high-deductible plans.\n\nWhen patients have more control over their health care dollars, they become more engaged in what care costs and what value they are receiving. This helps re-establish traditional patient-provider relationships.\n\nSecond, we should allow people to buy the plans they actually want, including short-term and catastrophic coverage.\n\nThird, we should create a dedicated way to cover the highest-cost patients instead of forcing the entire individual market to function like a high-risk pool.\n\nThere are real challenges ahead. We need to protect rural and critical access hospitals while making sure the system remains sustainable. We need to give young and healthy Montanans a reason to value their coverage, so we can spread the risk. We need to bring down prescription drug prices and add transparency to the prescription drug supply chain. We need reimbursement rates that keep our providers open for business.\n\nThis work requires a serious conversation focused on what actually lowers costs and improves access. That means listening to the people delivering care and the Montanans who depend on it. I have spent years working on these issues from both the state and federal level, and I will keep working with Montanans to get it right.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-15T09:50:21Z", "2026-09-15T09:52:05Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-announces-introduction-river-runs-through-it-act", "Zinke Announces Introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act", "2026-09-09", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Missoula, MT \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act (ARRTI), a locally developed public lands package bringing together more than two decades of work by communities throughout the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Zinke announced the legislation at Smoke Elzer Barn in Missoula, alongside local elected officials, members of the timber industry, sportsmen, recreation groups, and conservation organizations who helped shape the proposal.\n\nARRTI brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Proposal and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal into a single landscape-scale plan encompassing approximately 430,000 acres in the Blackfoot Valley. The legislation puts multiple use at the center by expanding recreation opportunities, allowing for forest restoration, and conserving public lands while supporting timber work, reducing wildfire risk, and protecting public access.\n\n\u201cThis is what locally led conservation looks like,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cWe can put people to work in the woods, support our timber industry, reduce wildfire risk, and keep our forests healthy while protecting public access and conserving the iconic places we cherish. This proposal was built by the people who live, work, hunt, and recreate in the Blackfoot, and after decades of work they found a way forward that keeps this landscape working for everybody.\u201d\n\nWhat the A River Runs Through It Act Does\n\nExpands active forest management and timber production. The bill designates six Forest Restoration Areas totaling roughly 180,000 acres where timber harvest, thinning, vegetation management, prescribed fire, stream restoration, and other projects can improve forest health and put more wood products to work in Montana.\n\nIncreases forest management around Lincoln. The Lincoln Prosperity portion of the bill prioritizes fuel reduction and forest restoration west of Lincoln to reduce wildfire risks to homes and infrastructure, while allowing forest and stream restoration, vegetation management, and other work that gives the local foresters greater flexibility to actively manage forests surrounding the community.\n\nCreates designated recreation areas and protects winter access. The legislation establishes six designated recreation areas totaling roughly 60,000 acres, including securing permanent winter access for snowmobiles and adds new mountain biking routes while protecting existing routes and creates a connected Off-Highway Vehicle trail loop more than 70 miles long, including approximately 20 miles of new trails.\n\nProtects public access and recreation. The bill maintains and expands opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and off-highway vehicle use while creating new and improved trail connections throughout the Blackfoot Valley.\n\nProtects iconic backcountry. The legislation adds roughly 100,000 acres to the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat wilderness areas, creates wilderness on Nevada Mountain, and releases approximately 23,000 acres of Wilderness Study Area land from analysis paralysis and restores public access and multiple use to those lands..\n\nBroad Local Support\n\nThe A River Runs Through It Act grew out of years of work among people who have not always agreed on how public lands should be managed but came together around a plan that supports multiple use and the communities of the Blackfoot Valley.\n\nThe unified proposal is supported by Wild Montana, Montana Trout Unlimited, The Wilderness Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Back Country Horsemen of Montana, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, along with local residents, businesses, and recreation interests. The collaborative efforts that form the foundation of the legislation have also received support from local elected officials and members of the timber industry.\n\n\u201cWild Montana is honored to be part of the two collaboratives that have spent more than two decades developing solutions for the public lands of the Blackfoot watershed. Seeing this work come together in the A River Runs Through It Act is a remarkable achievement. The legislation would protect iconic landscapes, expand recreation access, strengthen forest restoration, support rural economies, and resolve long-standing wilderness study area designations. If passed, it would also establish Montana\u2019s first wilderness designation since 2014. We are grateful for Representative Zinke\u2019s leadership in listening to the residents, businesses, and public land users who know this landscape best. This proposal was built the Montana way: by sitting down together, working through differences, and finding common ground for a place we all love. Now it is up to Congress to recognize how special this hard-won agreement is and pass this locally driven legislation.\u201d - Zach Angstead, Wild MT\n\n\u201dWe\u2019re all drawn to the backcountry for the same reasons: to enjoy Montana\u2019s wild places, to connect with the natural world, and to restore our spiritual health. And we all value the Blackfoot landscape and deserve a place on it. We\u2019re grateful to Rep. Zinke for supporting these community proposals.\u201d - Smoke Elser, retired outfitter and guide\n\n\u201dThis proposal reflects Montana values of being good stewards to the land and working together with broad partners to get more accomplished. Our forests and rural communities need a vibrant forest products industry, and the focus on restoration in the Blackfoot Valley will help sustain the health of both. Thank you to Rep. Zinke for moving this community proposal forward as the A River Runs Through It Act.\u201d - Gordy Sanders, retired forester, Pyramid Mountain Lumber\n\n\u201dMontanans from all over come to Lincoln and the Blackfoot Valley to camp, to go fishing, to go 4 wheeling, to ride their motorcycles or to hike. So, what happens on the national forest impacts us a lot. That's really what drives our economy. This proposal was built so that no one group loses anything. We all got something out of this project. We\u2019re happy to see Congressman Zinke carry this Montana collaboration to Washington, D.C.\u201d - Bill Cyr, Lincoln resident and retired forester\n\n\u201cFor motorized recreationists in the upper- Blackfoot Valley, the A River Runs Through It Act provides huge benefits. It will permanently protect important ATV and snowmobile access and authorize construction of several new trail connections. Whether you\u2019re looking for a day-ride with your family or a multi-day backcountry loop riding experience, this bill will improve the quality of the experience for many. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for introducing this legislation.\u201d - Russ Ehnes, President, Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association\n\n\u201cPowell County\u2019s economy depends on both a strong timber industry and a growing recreation economy, and our future depends on making sure the two can thrive together. The A River Runs Through It Act strikes that balance\u2014putting more work into our forests, providing a common-sense solution for long-standing Wilderness Study Areas and giving our communities greater certainty about the future of these lands. This is the kind of practical, locally driven solution that\u2019s good for Powell County.\u201d - Bill Hooker, Powell County Commissioner\n\n\u201cThe success of our communities relies on our ability to work together and tackle hard problems. The folks in Lincoln have never shied away from the work it takes to get things done, and the proof lies in the A River Runs Through It Act. The proposal balances recreation and conservation with an eye to community wildfire protection and forest health. I am proud to support the A River Runs Through It Act and thrilled to see Rep. Zinke introduce it in the U.S. Congress. This is a big day for Montanans who don't mind rolling up their sleeves and getting things done.\u201d - Andy Hunthausen, Lewis & Clark County Commissioner\n\n\u201cTrue collaboration requires doing the hard work up front rather than choosing the path of least resistance. Over two decades, neighbors in the Blackfoot watershed have built a plan that protects our public lands while keeping our communities viable. They have proven that local voices can successfully unite around a shared vision to protect our natural heritage while ensuring our communities thrive for generations to come. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for supporting the A River Runs Through It Act.\u201d - Juanita Vero, Missoula County Commissioner\n\n\u201cThe A River Runs Through It Act is a common-sense solution built by the people who know these lands best. It supports healthier forests and stronger rural economies while respecting the many ways Montanans work on and enjoy our public lands. I commend Congressman Zinke for honoring years of local work by introducing this legislation, and I encourage the rest of Montana\u2019s delegation to help get it across the finish line.\u201d - John Fitzpatrick, House Representative, HD 76\n\n\u201cThis is what 25 years of refusing to give up on common ground looks like. For a generation, Montanans have kept showing up because the freedom to enjoy these public lands, the responsibility to conserve them and the obligation to pass them on to future generations are bigger than any one disagreement. We thank Congressman Zinke for recognizing the extraordinary collaboration behind this Montana-built proposal and for carrying it forward in Congress. It honors decades of work by the people of the Blackfoot and is a fitting addition to his long record of championing Montana\u2019s public lands.\u201d - Barb Cestero, Montana State Director, The Wilderness Society\n\n\"The A River Runs Through It Act wasn't built in Washington\u2014it was built through a collaborative process by the people who hunt, fish and make a living on this landscape. That\u2019s the Montana way and something we can unite behind.\" - Ryan 'Cal' Callaghan, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers\n\n\u201cFor over two decades, residents of the Blackfoot River watershed have come together to create durable, large landscape solutions that benefit all\u2026not just a select few. For these many years this team of united Montanans with diverse interests remained banded together, for the betterment of all Montana families. The \u201cA River Runs Through It Act\u201d is a testament to their dogged determination to ensure local Montanans decide what happens in our backyard, not D.C. politicians. We applaud Congressman Zinke in listening, learning, and advocating for Montana families with introduction and support of this legislation, where all interest groups - and all Montanans - win.\u201d - Keagan Zoellner, Montana State Director, Mountain Mamas\n\nBackground\n\nThe A River Runs Through It Act represents more than two decades of locally driven work over the future of public lands in the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Covering approximately 430,000 acres, the proposal brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship effort and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal, combining active forest management, timber production, wildfire mitigation, recreation, public access, and permanent conservation into a single plan shaped by local communities, sportsmen, timber interests, recreation groups, and conservation organizations.\n\nZinke has long worked on conservation, public access, and active management of western lands. As Secretary of the Interior, he launched the federal-state effort to improve big-game migration corridors and winter range, and since returning to Congress he has introduced the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, helped found the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, advanced legislation to improve wildlife movement and recreation access, and supported active forest management to improve forest health and sustain western communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-10T09:25:58Z", "2026-09-10T09:27:09Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-no-hud-funding-sanctuary-cities-act", "DOWNING INTRODUCES NO HUD FUNDING FOR SANCTUARY CITIES ACT", "2026-09-02", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced HR 10222, the No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act, legislation that would make sanctuary jurisdictions ineligible for grant funding administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).\n\nUnder current law, jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement can still receive HUD grant funding. The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act would end that practice and ensure federal housing dollars are not directed to sanctuary jurisdictions.\n\n\u201cIf a sanctuary city is not complying with federal law, we should not allocate American taxpayers\u2019 hard-earned money to those areas,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe American taxpayer should not be responsible for funding cities that choose to disregard federal immigration policy while law-abiding citizens are left to bear the cost.\u201d\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nStatements of Support:\n\n\u201cSanctuary jurisdictions should not be rewarded with federal housing dollars while refusing to cooperate with federal immigration law. Rep. Downing\u2019s No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act puts American taxpayers first and ensures federal resources are directed to communities that uphold the law rather than undermine it.\u201d\n\nMichael Hough, Co-President, NumbersUSA\n\n\u201cThe number of sanctuary cities in the U.S. has surged in recent years, offering taxpayer-funded public services and housing assistance to millions of illegal aliens while blocking immigration enforcement. At the same time, mass illegal immigration has driven up housing demand, worsened affordability, and burdened public benefits programs. The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act takes commonsense steps to put an end to sanctuary cities and illegal immigration rather than rewarding those who break our laws. FAIR applauds Congressman Downing for putting Americans first and urges Congress to swiftly pass this bill.\"\n\nJoe Chatam, Director of Government Relations, Federation for American Immigration Reform\n\n\"Sanctuary jurisdictions that obstruct immigration enforcement are the weak links driving illegal immigration across the country. It is fundamentally unfair to hardworking Americans that these cities and States can harbor illegal aliens while simultaneously taking federal housing funds. We thank Rep. Downing for introducing the No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act, which finally cuts off taxpayer dollars to jurisdictions that think they are above the law.\"\n\nGrant Newman, Director of Government Relations, Immigration Accountability Project\n\nThe No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act is cosponsored by:\n\nRep. Warren Davidson (OH-08), Rep. Pete Sessions (TX-17), Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Rep. Rich McCormick (GA-07), Rep. Scott Perry (PA-10), Rep. Michael Cloud (TX-27), Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01), Rep. Harriet Hageman (WY-At Large), Rep. Buddy Carter (GA-01), Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14), Rep. Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Rep. Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Rep. Andy Harris (MD-01), Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36), and Rep. Michael Rulli (OH-06).\n\nBackground:\n\nAccording to research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, immigration from 2021 to 2024 accounted for approximately 30 percent of the increase in U.S. home prices during that period.\n\nThe No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act would establish that sanctuary jurisdictions are not eligible to receive HUD grant funding for use in those jurisdictions.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-receives-rocky-mountain-elk-foundation-excellence-advocacy-award", "Zinke Receives Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Excellence in Advocacy Award", "2026-08-21", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Missoula, M.T. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke received the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), recognizing his work to advance conservation, wildlife management, public access to public lands, and America\u2019s hunting heritage.\n\n\u201cRMEF has been one of the strongest conservation partners in Montana and across the West, and I\u2019m honored to receive this award,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cFrom keeping public lands in public hands to improving elk migration corridors and restoring healthy forests, we share a belief that conservation works best when hunters, landowners, states, tribes, and federal managers are at the table. I\u2019m proud of what we\u2019ve accomplished together and look forward to the next generation of leadership in this effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Zinke has proven time and again through legislative leadership and action that he is committed to real conservation and America\u2019s public lands,\u201d said Kyle Weaver, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president and CEO. \u201cHis work crafting and advancing critical legislation resulted in impactful conservation outcomes, making him an invaluable ally to hunter-conservationists throughout our nation.\"\n\nThe partnership between Zinke and RMEF extends back to his first term in the House of Representatives, when they worked together on federal forest management reforms that would later help shape provisions included in the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act. Zinke and RMEF also worked to oppose the sale of public lands and protect funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.\n\nThat partnership expanded during Zinke\u2019s time leading the Department of the Interior. In 2018, Zinke signed Secretarial Order 3362, launching a federal effort to improve western big-game winter range and migration corridors for elk, mule deer and pronghorn through partnerships with states, private landowners and conservation organizations. The initiative remains a major RMEF conservation priority and laid the groundwork for ongoing migration corridor work across the West.\n\nBuilding on that effort, Zinke introduced the bipartisan Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, which strengthens voluntary, state and tribal-led efforts to conserve big-game migration corridors, improve habitat connectivity and support research and mapping. RMEF hosted the original rollout of the legislation at its Missoula headquarters and praised the bill as directly aligned with its conservation mission.\n\nZinke and RMEF have also worked together in support of several other major conservation and public lands priorities, including the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act, the Wildlife Road Crossings Program Reauthorization Act and the Grizzly Bear State Management Act. RMEF also endorsed the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus co-founded by Zinke, furthering their work on conservation, wildlife habitat, public access and responsible land management and creating a platform for future conservation minded legislators to continue the progress made by their partnership.\n\n###", 1, "2026-08-22T05:24:59Z", "2026-08-22T05:26:16Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-visits-dry-redwater-regional-water-authority-highlights-progress-hr", "DOWNING VISITS DRY-REDWATER REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY, HIGHLIGHTS PROGRESS ON H.R. 8745", "2026-08-14", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "SIDNEY, MT. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) joined members of the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority Board in Sidney to discuss progress on H.R. 8745, his legislation to authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System.\n\nDuring the meeting, Downing updated board members on the bill\u2019s status in the House and discussed the federal authorization process, project timelines, and next steps for advancing the legislation through Congress.\n\nCongressman Downing with the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority Board\n\n\u201cEastern Montana has waited far too long for clean and reliable water,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authorization Act will help move this critical project forward and deliver the infrastructure these communities need. I appreciate the work of the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority and will keep working to get this bill across the finish line.\u201d\n\nH.R. 8745 would authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System, serving communities in Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, and Richland counties. These areas have historically faced poor water quality.\n\nThe proposed system would include a water treatment plant, more than 1,300 miles of pipeline, 116 miles of electrical lines, 12 pump stations, and six storage tanks.\n\nRead the bill textHERE.\n\nBackground\n\nDowning introduced H.R. 8745 in May 2026. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy.\n\nThe Dry-Redwater Rural Water System is designed to expand access to clean and reliable water across eastern Montana and provide long-term infrastructure for rural communities in the region.", 1, "2026-08-15T05:23:20Z", "2026-08-15T05:24:50Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-recognizes-erin-graf-july-montana-innovator", "DOWNING RECOGNIZES ERIN GRAF AS JULY \u201cMONTANA INNOVATOR\u201d", "2026-07-30", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Erin Graf as a \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d for the month of July. Conducted in partnership with the Montana 250th Commission, the initiative highlights notable Montanans ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month features a different theme, with July honoring achievements in arts, culture, and literature.\n\nRead the full recognition below:\n\n\"This month, I am proud to recognize Erin Graf, a Harlowton native who has dedicated her career to capturing the beauty of God\u2019s creation through the landscapes of rural Montana.\n\nErin studied fine art at Montana State University from 2001 to 2006, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking and a bachelor\u2019s degree in K-12 art education. She also received MSU\u2019s Award of Excellence for Art, presented to the top graduating students in the department.\n\nPrimarily a self-taught oil painter, Erin became a full-time artist in 2015 after spending a decade coaching track and field at Montana State.\n\nIn 2019, she held her first solo museum exhibition at the Great Plains Art Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska. The four-month exhibition, titled Montana: Prairies to Peaks, featured 35 works. Erin also served as the museum\u2019s artist-in-residence, and two of her paintings were added to its permanent collection.\n\nErin co-founded the Three Rivers Artists Guild and previously served as president of Southwest Montana Arts. She also served for five years as chair of the Bozeman Art Museum\u2019s Board of Directors. Her work has appeared in numerous solo and group exhibitions, and she regularly uses her art to support important causes.\n\nThrough her work, Erin shares Montana\u2019s remarkable landscapes with audiences across the country. It is my honor to recognize her as a Montana Innovator who embodies the spirit of arts, culture, and literature in our state.\"", 1, "2026-07-31T07:49:23Z", "2026-07-31T07:50:48Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-leads-letter-urging-sec-finalize-registered-offering-reform-proposal", "DOWNING LEADS LETTER URGING SEC TO FINALIZE REGISTERED OFFERING REFORM PROPOSAL", "2026-07-27", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) led a letter urging the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins to finalize a proposal that would encourage capital formation and reduce burdensome regulations for certain registered securities offerings.\n\nThe proposal would remove duplicative state review for registered offerings of unlisted securities, which will lower costs and expand investor access while preserving existing protections against fraud.\n\nThe letter was signed by:\n\nRep. Troy Downing (MT-02), Rep. Ann Wagner (MO-02), Rep. Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Rep. Andy Barr (KY-06), Rep. Dan Meuser (PA-09), Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-08), Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06), Rep. Michael Lawler (NY-17), Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14), Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Rep. William R. Timmons IV (SC-04), Rep. Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Rep. Young Kim (CA-40), Rep. John Rose (TN-06), Rep. Marlin A. Stutzman (IN-03), Rep. Pete Sessions (TX-17), and Rep. Mike Haridopolos (FL-08)\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-28T07:37:32Z", "2026-07-28T07:38:50Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-cosponsored-financial-services-bill-passes-house", "DOWNING-COSPONSORED FINANCIAL SERVICES BILL PASSES HOUSE", "2026-07-21", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6955, the Main Street Capital Access Act, legislation cosponsored by Congressman Troy Downing, to encourage new bank formation and help community lenders better serve families, small businesses, and rural communities across Montana.\n\nThe Main Street Capital Access Act reduces regulatory barriers that have made it increasingly difficult to establish and grow community banks. For years, smaller financial institutions have been subjected to many of the same rules designed for the nation\u2019s largest banks. These one-size-fits-all requirements have limited local lending and discouraged the creation of new banks, particularly in rural states like Montana.\n\n\u201cMontana families and small businesses depend on community banks that understand their needs and are invested in the success of their towns,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cInstead, Washington has buried these local lenders in one-size-fits-all rules meant for megabanks. The Main Street Capital Access Act cuts the red tape holding back community lending, makes it easier to establish new banks, and expands access to capital in rural communities. This bill puts Main Street ahead of Washington bureaucracy.\u201d\n\nThe legislation also strengthens transparency and accountability in the bank approval process while ensuring regulators remain focused on safety and soundness. By removing unnecessary barriers to entry, the bill will help expand financial services in underserved communities and give more Montanans access to trusted local lenders.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-22T07:34:13Z", "2026-07-22T07:35:16Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act-passes", "Congressman Downing's Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act Passes House Natural Resources Committee", "2026-07-15", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Troy Downing's bill, H.R. 726, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the House Natural Resources Committee.\n\nThe legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward.\n\nThe original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana and authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system.\n\nH.R. 726 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation.\n\nIn addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation.\n\n\"Access to clean and reliable water is critical for the Crow Tribe and the communities it serves,\" said Congressman Downing. \"I'm proud that H.R. 726 passed the House Natural Resources Committee. Advancing this legislation will provide the Tribe with the flexibility it needs to develop water and wastewater projects that work for local communities, as well as pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. This bipartisan legislation honors our commitments to the Crow Tribe and invests in Montana's future.\"\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025 provides critical updates to the 2010 Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act without any additional federal expenditures or alterations to existing water rights.\n\nThe original settlement authorized approximately $460 million for the MR&I water system, improvements to the Crow Irrigation Project, and hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam.", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-applauds-usfws-decision-grizzly-bears", "Zinke Applauds USFWS Decision on Grizzly Bears", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke released the following statement applauding the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s publication of a draft revision to the January 2025 4(d) rule that would give states greater flexibility to manage grizzly bears.\n\n\"This announcement is a long time coming and very good news for many communities and the wildlife within the Yellowstone ecosystem and across bear country,\" said Secretary Zinke. \"Like the bald eagle before it, the recovery of the grizzly stands as one of America\u2019s great conservation success stories - the culmination of decades of hard work and dedication on the part of the state, tribal, federal, and private partners. As a Montanan and former Secretary of the Interior who started this process, I\u2019m proud of what we\u2019ve achieved together. I trust our state wildlife professionals in managing the bear population according to the best science going forward, as they do all our wildlife.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nSince serving as Secretary of the Interior and throughout his time in Congress, Zinke has led efforts to delist recovered grizzly bear populations and return management authority to Montana and other western states.\n\nIn June 2017, as Secretary of the Interior, Zinke announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s final rule delisting the recovered Greater Yellowstone grizzly population.\n\nIn February 2023, Zinke joined Rep. Harriet Hageman in introducing H.R. 1245, the Grizzly Bear State Management Act, to reinstate the 2017 delisting rule.\n\nIn July 2023, Zinke secured House Appropriations Committee approval of his amendment to delist Greater Yellowstone grizzlies in the FY24 Interior Appropriations bill.\n\nIn February 2025, Zinke led a congressional letter urging President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to reverse Biden-era grizzly policies and return management authority to the states.\n\nIn July 2025, Zinke secured language in the FY26 Interior Appropriations bill directing the delisting of the Greater Yellowstone, Northern Continental Divide, and Bitterroot populations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-16T07:21:44Z", "2026-07-16T07:23:13Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-whole-home-repairs-act-included-21st-century-road-housing-act-becomes", "DOWNING\u2019S WHOLE-HOME REPAIRS ACT INCLUDED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ROAD TO HOUSING ACT BECOMES LAW", "2026-07-11", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, comprehensive legislation to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing programs, and support affordable housing nationwide becomes law. Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s Whole-Home Repairs Act, legislation to support essential home repairs was included in the package.\n\nDowning\u2019s bill, the Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2025, authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to offer grants for essential home repair assistance to low-and-moderate-income homeowners and small landlords.\n\n\u201cHousing affordability remains a major challenge for families across Montana and across the country,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThis bill is a step forward in addressing the needs of homeowners and renters. I\u2019m proud that my Whole-Home Repairs Act was included in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to leverage federal, state, and local partnerships and strengthen our existing housing stock. With too many Montana families cost burdened and many homes in need of repair, this funding could not come at a better time.\u201d\n\nThe broader legislation includes several reforms aimed at expanding housing supply and modernizing federal housing policy.\n\nThe bill eliminates the permanent chassis requirement for manufactured homes, an outdated federal mandate that required manufactured homes to be built on a permanent steel frame. Removing this requirement will help lower costs and allow more design flexibility for prefabricated housing.\n\nThe legislation also includes important community banking provisions. It allows community banks to hold more custodial and reciprocal deposits without triggering brokered deposit restrictions. It also provides exam relief for banks with up to $6 billion in assets and streamlines the process for new community banks to form.\n\nThe 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act also creates a two-year pilot program to support the creation of new community banks, especially in rural areas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-12T07:28:31Z", "2026-07-12T07:30:18Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downing-introduces-informed-investor-access-act-expand-investment", "Congressman Downing Introduces Informed Investor Access Act to Expand Investment Opportunities", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Informed Investor Access Act, legislation to modernize the definition of an \u201caccredited investor\u201d and expand access to private investment opportunities for Americans receiving professional financial advice.\n\nUnder current law, accredited investor status is primarily based on income and net worth thresholds. This framework often limits certain investment opportunities to individuals who already have significant wealth, while excluding others who may be financially sophisticated or working with regulated financial professionals.\n\nThe Informed Investor Access Act would create a new pathway for individuals receiving personalized investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer to qualify as accredited investors for the applicable transaction.\n\n\u201cBuilding wealth should not be reserved only for those who are already wealthy,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe current accredited investor framework creates a self-reinforcing barrier. Too often, Americans need wealth to access the investments that can help build wealth. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes this outdated standard by recognizing financial sophistication and professional guidance, not just income and net worth.\u201d\n\nCritically, the legislation expands access without weakening investor protections. Registered investment advisers are subject to fiduciary duties under the Investment Advisers Act. Broker-dealers are held to Regulation Best Interest standards under the Securities Exchange Act. These standards require financial professionals to consider a client\u2019s financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance when making recommendations.\n\n\u201cAs Montana\u2019s former securities and insurance regulator, I know investor protection and capital formation go hand in hand,\u201d continued Congressman Downing. \u201cThis bill allows hardworking Americans to grow their wealth through new investment opportunities while keeping important guardrails in place.\n\nRead the full bill text HERE.\n\nStatements of Support:\n\nRep. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14) are original cosponsors of the bill. Supporting organizations include the American Securities Association, Bond Market Association, Financial Services Institute, Financial Technology Association, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives, Investment Advisers Association, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.\n\nAmerican Securities Association:\n\n\"ASA applauds Rep. Downing for giving every American \u2014 not just the wealthy \u2014 the opportunity to participate in the American dream. The Informed Investor Access Act broadens investor access while preserving important investor protections that make our markets the strongest in the world.\" - American Securities Association President and CEO Chris Iacovella\n\nBond Market Association:\n\n\u201cThe Bond Market Association, the Washington, DC-based trade association that exclusively represents securities dealers and banks whose primary focus is the U.S. fixed income markets, fully supports Rep. Downing\u2019s Informed Investor Access Act. By allowing individuals working with registered advisors to qualify as accredited investors, individuals would be able unlock access to more markets and securities closed to those that are unaccredited. We applaud Rep. Downing\u2019s work on this important legislation and call on HFSC Leadership to work to advance the bill in the 119th Congress.\u201d\n\nInvestment Advisers Association:\n\n\u201cThe IAA applauds Congressman Downing for advancing legislation to modernize and expand the accredited investor definition, including by creating a pathway for clients of fiduciary investment advisers to qualify. Investment advisers\u2019 fiduciary duty provides a critical investor safeguard by requiring that recommendations be made in each client\u2019s best interest. By establishing additional pathways to accredited investor status while preserving strong investor protections, this legislation would broaden access to investment opportunities, support capital formation, and enable more Americans to participate in the growth and innovation of our economy.\u201d\n\nInstitute for Portfolio Alternatives:\n\n\u201cFinancial sophistication should not be measured by wealth alone. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes the accredited investor framework by creating a responsible pathway for individuals who receive personalized investment advice or recommendations from regulated investment advisers or broker-dealers in connection with a private-market investment. This approach expands access while keeping important investor-protection standards in place. IPA is proud to support this legislation and thanks Congressman Troy Downing for his leadership in expanding investor choice, strengthening capital formation and opening more opportunity to American investors.\u201d - Anya Coverman, President & CEO, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives\n\nFinancial Services Institute:\n\n\u201cFinancial advisors play a critical role in helping investors evaluate opportunities and build financial plans that reflect their unique goals and risk tolerance,\" said FSI President & CEO Dale Brown. \"The Informed Investor Access Act recognizes the value of that relationship by expanding access to investment opportunities for investors who choose to work with a trusted financial advisor. We commend Rep. Downing for introducing this legislation and remain committed to advancing policies that preserve investor choice, bolster access to financial advice and help more Americans achieve long-term financial security.\"\n\nFinancial Technology Association:\n\n\u201cFinancial status shouldn\u2019t determine access to investment opportunities,\u201d said Penny Lee, President and CEO of the Financial Technology Association. \u201cWe strongly support Rep. Downing\u2019s Informed Investor Access Act, which will expand the definition of an accredited investor and open up wealth-building avenues for individuals working with registered professionals.\u201d\n\nUnited States Chamber of Commerce:\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the Informed Investor Access Act, sponsored by Rep. Downing. For too long, the SEC's accredited investor framework has left millions of investors on the sidelines of private capital markets simply because they do not meet arbitrary income or net worth thresholds. This bill will broaden the definition of accredited investors to include individuals who receive investment advice from registered investment advisers and broker-dealers. Doing so would be a commonsense step that expands investor access to private markets and fosters the capital formation that drives American innovation.\u201d \u2013 Kristen Malinconico, Executive Director, Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce\n\nBackground:\n\nThe current accredited investor framework relies heavily on income and net worth thresholds. This approach can exclude individuals who have financial knowledge or access to professional guidance but do not meet existing wealth-based requirements.\n\nThe Informed Investor Access Act addresses this issue by amending Section 2(a)(15) of the Securities Act of 1933 to add a new category of accredited investor for individuals receiving investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-encourages-montana-students-apply-2026-patriot-games", "Zinke Encourages Montana Students to Apply for 2026 Patriot Games", "2026-06-30", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke encouraged Montana students ages 14\u201317 to consider applying for the 2026 Patriot Games, a national competition highlighting leadership, athleticism, teamwork, and character as part of America\u2019s 250th anniversary celebration.\n\nThe Patriot Games, organized through Freedom250, will bring together student-athletes from across the United States, territories, and tribal nations to compete in a series of physical and team-based challenges. The event will award $250,000 in scholarships to top competitors and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN platforms, including a primetime special on ABC.\n\n\u201cThis is a great chance for Montana students to compete, meet kids from all over the country, have some fun, and maybe earn a $250,000 scholarship along the way.\u201d Zinke said. \u201cIt\u2019s a once in a lifetime opportunity to step onto the national stage and represent their state and country.\u201d\n\nApplications are currently open at Freedom250.org and are due July 10, 2026. Selected participants will compete August 9\u201311, 2026, with final programming airing August 13 on ESPN and ABC.\n\nFamilies, coaches, and educators across Montana are also encouraged to share the opportunity with eligible students who demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a strong commitment to excellence.\n\nEligibility: Students ages 14\u201317\n\nApplication Deadline: July 10, 2026\n\nCompetition Dates: August 9\u201311, 2026\n\nScholarship: $250,000\n\nStudents can submit a short video and basic information at: Freedom250.org\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-01T06:34:07Z", "2026-07-01T06:35:35Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-whole-home-repairs-act-included-21st-century-road-housing-act-set", "DOWNING\u2019S WHOLE-HOME REPAIRS ACT INCLUDED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ROAD TO HOUSING ACT SET TO BECOME LAW", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, comprehensive legislation to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing programs, and support affordable housing nationwide. Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s Whole-Home Repairs Act, legislation to support essential home repairs was included in the package.\n\nDowning\u2019s bill, the Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2025, authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to offer grants for essential home repair assistance to low-and-moderate-income homeowners and small landlords.\n\n\u201cHousing affordability remains a major challenge for families across Montana and across the country,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThis bill is a step forward in addressing the needs of homeowners and renters. I\u2019m proud that my Whole-Home Repairs Act was included in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to leverage federal, state, and local partnerships and strengthen our existing housing stock. With too many Montana families cost burdened and many homes in need of repair, this funding could not come at a better time.\u201d\n\nThe broader legislation includes several reforms aimed at expanding housing supply and modernizing federal housing policy.\n\nThe bill eliminates the permanent chassis requirement for manufactured homes, an outdated federal mandate that required manufactured homes to be built on a permanent steel frame. Removing this requirement will help lower costs and allow more design flexibility for prefabricated housing.\n\nThe legislation also includes important community banking provisions. It allows community banks to hold more custodial and reciprocal deposits without triggering brokered deposit restrictions. It also provides exam relief for banks with up to $6 billion in assets and streamlines the process for new community banks to form.\n\nThe 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act also creates a two-year pilot program to support the creation of new community banks, especially in rural areas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-celebrates-538-million-pilt-funding-being-released-montana-counties", "Zinke Celebrates $53.8 Million in PILT Funding Being Released for Montana Counties", "2026-06-23", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke celebrated the release of $53,889,068 in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for Montana counties, an increase of more than $7.3 million over 2025 disbursements. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a major role in securing these funds.\n\n\u201cPublic lands are meant to be managed by a multiple-use mandate that allows for public access for recreation, economic development, and conservation. But with years of declining timber sales and economic activity, the counties that host them have been forced to bear the financial burden of management and lost tax revenue,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cWestern Montana is nearly 80% federal land. The counties cannot shoulder this burden alone. I fought nonstop to permanently and fully fund PILT and ensure full funding to counties to maintain roads, support law enforcement, fund emergency services, and keep property taxes affordable for local families.\u201d\n\nMontana is home to millions of acres of federal land, including national forests, national parks, wildlife refuges, and Bureau of Land Management lands. While these public lands are a cornerstone of Montana's economy and way of life, they reduce the local tax base available to county governments.\n\nPILT payments are essential in offsetting the loss of property tax revenue in counties where large portions of land are owned by the federal government and therefore exempt from local taxation. Montana's counties rely on these funds to support essential services such as law enforcement, road maintenance, emergency response, schools, and local infrastructure.\n\nThe increase in funding comes as many rural Montana counties continue to face rising costs for public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and other essential services. PILT payments provide a reliable source of revenue that helps local governments meet those needs while ensuring the federal government remains a responsible partner to rural communities.\n\nSee the distribution of PILT funding in Montana by county here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/montana-seniors-deserve-accountability-medicare-advantage", "Montana Seniors Deserve Accountability in Medicare Advantage", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing and Montana State Auditor James Brown penned an opinion piece for the Billings Gazette on protecting Montana seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage. Read it below.\n\nMontana Seniors Deserve Accountability in Medicare Advantage\n\nCongressman Troy Downing and Montana State Auditor James Brown\n\nBillings Gazette\n\nJune 11, 2026\n\nMedicare Advantage is not just an abstract policy for many Montana seniors who rely on it to access doctors, prescriptions, medical care, and peace of mind. Montanans deserve accountability, not bureaucratic delays, when they have questions about their plan and coverage.\n\nStates need a stronger role in protecting consumers and enforcing the Medicare Advantage rules already on the books. As it stands, states are largely blocked from independently enforcing federal Medicare Advantage requirements. Even when a plan operates in Montana, serves Montana seniors, and affects Montana families, state officials have limited authority to step in and ensure compliance with existing federal standards. This lacks the common sense Montanans expect from their government.\n\nI\u2019m sure many of you recall the television commercials that featured 1970s and 1980s sports and TV personalities like Joe Namath and Jimmie Walker promoting Medicare Advantage plans to seniors, on behalf of lead-generation operations. In some cases, even when a plan lacked an adequate provider network, states had limited authority to enforce the rules or protect seniors from potential bad actors.\n\nAll of this fell upon the federal government, specifically the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), which has not been sufficiently responsive in addressing this growing problem.\n\nState governments are closest to the people impacted by coverage issues. State officials hear directly from consumers, families, providers, and communities when something goes wrong. When distance, rural access, and limited healthcare options already create challenges \u2013 seniors deserve responsive oversight that understands the realities on the ground especially in a vast and rural state like Montana.\n\nThat is why I introduced H.R.8726, the Protecting Authority and Restoring Tools Necessary for Enforcement by Regulatory States (PARTNERS) Act of 2026.\n\nMy legislation empowers states to enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage requirements for plans operating within their borders. The PARTNERS Act directs the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate enforcement efforts with states where Medicaid Advantage organizations are licensed or operate.\n\nImportantly, it does not create new standards or mandates for Medicare Advantage plans. It simply gives states the tools to help enforce the rules that already exist. Montana seniors and consumers deserve advocates closer to home. The PARTNERS Act will improve coordination between state and federal regulators to the benefit of Montanans.\n\nWe both understand how important the state auditor\u2019s office is for protecting and educating Montana insurance consumers (effectively all of us), as well as how important it is to be quick and responsive especially in contrast with federal agencies when problems arise. When healthcare is at stake, we must strive to be as responsive as possible. Montanans appreciate it when their questions and concerns are heard by public servants in their own communities, not bureaucrats back in Washington.\n\nMedicare Advantage plays an important role for many seniors. Any program serving Montana seniors must come with accountability, transparency, and proper oversight. The rules already exist; states just need the ability to enforce them.\n\nMontanans deserve timely answers and consumer protection that is close to home and responsive to their needs. Whether in Washington or in Helena, our responsibility is the same: protect Montanans, defend consumers, and ensure the rules meant to safeguard seniors are enforced.\n\nThe PARTNERS Act is a commonsense step toward that goal.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-2026-great-american-outdoors-act-250", "Zinke Introduces 2026 Great American Outdoors Act 250", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman, former Secretary of the Interior, and key architect of the original Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Ryan Zinke joined House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) in introducing the Great American Outdoors Act 250 (GAOA 250).\n\nThe legislation reauthorizes and modernizes the Great American Outdoors Act, one of President Trump's signature legislative achievements from his first term, investing $1.9 billion over the next five years to address deferred maintenance across America's national parks and public lands while creating jobs, improving recreational access, and supporting rural gateway communities ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary.\n\nAs the 52nd Secretary of the Interior, Zinke helped construct and champion the original Great American Outdoors Act, which President Trump signed into law in 2020. The landmark legislation established dedicated funding to tackle decades of deferred maintenance across America's public lands and has since delivered billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements nationwide.\n\n\"The Great American Outdoors Act was one of the crowning achievements of President Trump's first administration and proved that conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand,\" said Zinke. \"As Secretary of the Interior, I worked alongside President Trump to help build the foundation for this historic investment in our parks and public lands. Six years later, we've seen the results. Roads have been rebuilt, trails restored, visitor facilities modernized, and access improved for hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, and families. GAOA 250 builds on that proven success and ensures these investments continue as America celebrates its 250th birthday.\"\n\nSince its enactment, the original Great American Outdoors Act has funded thousands of projects, improvements, and repairs across the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Indian Education. The law has helped repair roads, bridges, campgrounds, trails, visitor centers, water systems, and other critical infrastructure while supporting local jobs and strengthening rural economies.\n\nIn Montana alone, GAOA has delivered more than $100 million in investments for public land infrastructure improvements, including road rehabilitation, water system upgrades, trail improvements, campground modernization, historic preservation projects, visitor facility enhancements, and countless projects in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. These projects have improved access and visitor experiences while helping preserve some of Montana's most iconic public lands for future generations.\n\nGAOA 250 would:\n\nInvest $1.9 billion over five years in national parks and public lands through foreign visitor fees, private donations, and onshore energy revenues.\n\nRestore campgrounds, trails, boat ramps, hunting and fishing access sites, and other outdoor recreation infrastructure.\n\nSupport an estimated 72,500 jobs nationwide and generate $26.4 billion in economic activity for rural gateway communities.\n\nStrengthen America's $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy.\n\nEstablish the new America's Legacy Restoration Fund to continue reducing deferred maintenance backlogs.\n\nExpand opportunities for private donations and public-private partnerships.\n\nCreate dedicated opportunities for outdoor recreation and sportsmen's access projects.\n\nCodify President Trump's foreign visitor fee policy to generate new revenue for maintenance projects.\n\nThe bill will now be referred to the House Natural Resources Committee.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-led-military-sales-bill-passes-house-bolstering-us-manufacturing-and", "Zinke-Led Military Sales Bill Passes House, Bolstering U.S. Manufacturing and Global Alliances", "2026-06-08", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Ryan Zinke\u2019s Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening American manufacturing by making it easier for allied nations to jointly purchase U.S.-made defense equipment while deepening strategic partnerships abroad. The bill is a continuation of Zinke\u2019s work as Chairman of the Foreign Military Sales Task Force, where he has worked alongside the Department of War to modernize military sales, securing huge wins through legislation and executive order.\n\n\u201cAmerica builds the best defense equipment in the world, and our allies need it to safeguard their \u2013 and our \u2013 people and interests,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThis bill helps cut through the bureaucracy so our partners can work together to buy American-made systems faster and more efficiently. That means stronger and more secure alliances, and more manufacturing jobs here at home.\u201d\n\n\u201cStrengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex and dangerous world,\u201d said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. \u201cI\u2019m pleased the House has passed our bipartisan legislation to help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver critical capabilities more efficiently.\"\n\nThe bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries with similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for American manufacturers.\n\nUnder the current system, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to purchase U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can delay orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible and coordinated approach for enabling multinational procurement, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, further helping generate more consistent demand for U.S.-made systems.\n\nThe legislation directs the Department of War to assess interest among allied nations, identify potential lead coordinator countries for joint purchases, recommend ways to streamline approvals and licensing, and increase the exportability of defense articles and services. It also explores ways to expand access to financing tools and accelerate sales outside traditional programs, ensuring American defense companies can respond more quickly to allied demand.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-announces-house-passage-community-project-funding-montana-public", "Downing Announces House Passage of Community Project Funding for Montana Public Safety Priorities", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Troy Downing announced House passage of Community Project Funding for three Montana public safety and emergency response projects in the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cMontana\u2019s first responders and law enforcement officers deserve the tools, facilities, and resources they need to protect our communities,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThese projects will strengthen emergency response, improve public safety, and support the men and women who serve Stillwater County, McCone County, and surrounding communities every day. I am proud to fight for these investments in rural Montana.\u201d\n\nThe Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Downing includes:\n\nColumbus Fire Rescue, Stillwater County \u2014 $2,000,000\n\nThis funding supports renovations and modernization of the Columbus Rural Fire District #3 fire station. The project would expand sleeping quarters for resident, paid, and volunteer staff, improve firefighter safety by moving gear out of the apparatus bay and away from exhaust contamination, and renovate a nearby facility into administrative and training space. The upgraded facility would also be available for community use and serve as a backup emergency operations center for the county.\n\nMcCone County Courthouse Security System \u2014 $45,000\n\nThis funding supports the installation of security cameras and electronic access controls at the McCone County Courthouse. The system would allow the Sheriff and authorized users to monitor live camera feeds, review recorded footage, and better identify potential or active threats in and around the courthouse.\n\nStillwater County Law Enforcement and Emergency Operations Center \u2014 $800,000\n\nThis funding supports construction of a new law enforcement, emergency operations, and dispatch center in Stillwater County. The current facility, located in the historic courthouse, no longer meets the needs of the Sheriff\u2019s Office, dispatch staff, or the public. The new facility would include training space, evidence processing and storage, secure holding areas, four emergency dispatch stations, modern communications equipment, and 9-1-1 phone systems. It would also serve as Stillwater County\u2019s Emergency Operations Center during disasters, law enforcement incidents, and other emergencies.\n\nStatements of Support:\n\nRichard Cowger, Chief, Columbus Fire/Rescue, said:\n\n\u201cThis project exemplifies responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Community Project Funding will allow Columbus Rural Fire District #3 to modernize existing facilities, preserve valuable public infrastructure, and improve emergency services without placing the full financial burden on local taxpayers. The result is a cost-effective investment that benefits both the residents of our district and taxpayers nationwide through improved public safety and long-term infrastructure sustainability. This program allows some of our local federal tax dollars to go back to work right here in our community! \u201d\n\nAlan Stempel, McCone County Commissioner, said:\n\n\u201cMcCone County appreciates Congressman Downing\u2019s support of our application for a Courthouse Security project which will enable our county to address serious safety deficiencies identified by Sheriff Paul Skyberg and state inspectors. McCone County is unable to complete this project without federal assistance.\u201d\n\nSteve Riveland, Stillwater County Commissioner, said:\n\n\u201cThis funding is significant to the success of the project to provide a safe and much more secure working environment for our law enforcement, 9-1-1 operators and emergency operations. Stillwater County is very grateful for this funding. The Stillwater County Commissioners would like to thank Representative Downing and his staff for their hard and diligent work for the citizens of Stillwater County and the great State of Montana.\u201d\n\nWith House passage of the FY27 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, Congressman Downing will continue working to ensure these projects are signed into law.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/175-million-zinkes-infrastructure-requests-and-many-more-montana-priorities", "$17.5 Million in Zinke\u2019s Infrastructure Requests and Many More Montana Priorities Head to the Floor for a Vote", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Last night, the FY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and the FY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act passed full committee markup. The bills included $17,500,000 in community project funding requested by Zinke, including continued funding for the Noxon Bridge and Seeley Lake wastewater treatment plant. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Zinke helped craft both bills, which now head to the House floor for a vote.\n\n\u201cMontana priorities are front and center in these bills,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThese investments will improve water and wastewater infrastructure, strengthen transportation and public safety, support affordable housing, and deliver real results for rural communities across Montana. The bills also include key provisions to delist recovered grizzly populations, combat drug trafficking in Indian Country, modernize transportation systems, and support working families and seniors. All Montana priorities, and all issues I will be fighting to get in the President\u2019s hands to be signed into law.\u201d\n\nSee Congressman Zinke\u2019s Community Project Funding requests included in the bills:\n\nFY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act\n\nFlathead County, $1,000,000 \u2013 Lakeside Wastewater System Improvement Project Phase 1\n\nFlathead County, $1,000,000 \u2013 Bigfork County Sewer District West Trunk Sewer Project\n\nLake County, $1,500,000 \u2013 Charlo Water and Sewer District Wastewater Lagoon Rehabilitation\n\nFlathead County, $1,500,000 \u2013 Evergreen Flood Resiliency and Groundwater Quality Improvements\n\nMissoula County, $1,750,000 \u2013 Lolo Wastewater Well Upgrades Phase 2\n\nGranite County, $1,750,000 \u2013 Granite County Clean Water Infrastructure Project Phase 2\n\nFY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:\n\nRavalli County $500,000 \u2013 Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II\n\nRavalli County, $500,000 \u2013 Old Corvallis Road Repair Phase II\n\nMissoula County, $1,000,000 \u2013 Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Phase II\n\nButte-Silver Bow County, $2,000,000 \u2013 Critical Minerals Extraction Advancements by Montana Tech\n\nSanders County, $5,000,000 \u2013 Noxon Bridge Replacement Phase II\n\nZinke provisions included in the bills:\n\nTHUD\n\nLow Population Highway Infrastructure\n\nDirects the Federal Highway Administration to ensure rural highway projects in counties under 50,000 residents receive fair consideration, even if they are not included in state transportation plans, helping small and remote communities compete for critical road safety and infrastructure funding.\n\nProject-Based Rental Assistance\n\nProvides $18.975 billion to renew housing assistance contracts for approximately 1.2 million families, an increase of $432 million over last year, ensuring continued stability for low-income households and seniors in rental housing, helping maintain stability in tight housing markets where rent increases have priced out many fixed-income residents.\n\nHousing Market Support Staff\n\nDirects HUD to closely monitor rapidly rising rental markets and dedicate staff support to communities facing housing shortages, helping local governments respond more quickly to affordability pressures. This gives smaller communities better access to federal expertise when rents spike or housing supply tightens unexpectedly. Zinke has consistently pushed for stronger HUD responsiveness to rural and mid-sized communities that often lack dedicated federal support capacity.\n\nRent Reporting for Affordable Housing\n\nCreates a pilot program allowing on-time rent payments to be reported to credit agencies with tenant consent and privacy protections, helping renters build credit history and improve pathways to homeownership. This is especially helpful for working families and young renters who consistently pay rent but do not receive credit for it under traditional scoring models.\n\nInterior\n\nGrizzly Bear Delisting (Northern Continental Divide & Greater Yellowstone)\n\nDirects the Interior Department to remove recovered grizzly bear populations from the endangered species list within 180 days, reflecting population recovery and returning greater management authority to state wildlife agencies. Zinke has long been a leader on this policy, submitting multiple bills and report language on the issue throughout his time in Congress. This shift is intended to give Montana and other Western states more flexibility to manage wildlife conflict, protect livestock, and maintain balanced conservation outcomes.\n\nOpioid Task Force\n\nRequires the Interior Department to brief Congress within 90 days on efforts to restart a drug enforcement task force focused on combating opioid and drug trafficking in tribal communities. This responds to ongoing concerns about drug trafficking routes impacting reservation communities across Montana and the West. Zinke has repeatedly emphasized the need for stronger coordination between federal, state, and tribal law enforcement to address the opioid crisis in Indian Country. As Secretary of Interior, Zinke created the Joint Opioid Reduction Task Force and has continued to work to address this issue in his time in Congress.\n\nCottonwood Fix\n\nProvides a permanent legislative fix to the Cottonwood court decision by limiting when the U.S. Forest Service must reinitiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to cases involving substantial new developments or changes to forest management plans. It will reduce delays that have stalled logging and forest management projects, address backlogs, and improve wildfire response and habitat management across Montana and the West. Zinke has previously introduced similar legislation in 2016 and 2023, both of which drew bipartisan and conservation support. Recently, this fix has passed the House in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill).\n\nNational Wildlife Refuge Fund\n\nProvides $16.2 million in funding to counties containing federal wildlife refuges to offset lost property tax revenue, helping support essential local services such as schools, roads, and emergency response. Half of western Montana counties contain National Wildlife Refuges and will receive funding from this program, helping stabilize local budgets that depend heavily on federal land payments.\n\nNative American Ironworker Training\n\nFunds workforce development programs that provide Native communities with training iron working as well as in advanced manufacturing and digital fabrication skills, supporting long-term economic opportunity and job growth for tribal members. The program was restarted in last years Interior appropriations bill at Zinke\u2019s request.\n\nWolverines\n\nProhibits the use of federal funds to implement the Biden-era North American wolverine endangered species listing, following specific finding and maintaining current management approaches while further evaluation continues. This prevents unnecessary litigation and restrictions to occur in Montana\u2019s timber harvesting forests. This prevents unnecessary litigation and regulatory uncertainty that can stall timber and land management projects in Montana\u2019s forested regions.\n\nCMR Bison Management\n\nProhibits federal funding for the introduction of bison into the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, maintaining existing land use and grazing management practices in eastern Montana. This preserves longstanding grazing agreements that many local ranchers depend on for economic stability.\n\nRead the full text of the Interior bill here.\n\nRead the full text of the THUD bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/montana-ag-priorities-and-over-48-million-zinke-requested-rural-infrastructure", "Montana Ag Priorities and Over $4.8 Million in Zinke Requested Rural Infrastructure Funding Passes the House in the FY27 Ag Appropriations Bill", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, the FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Act passed the House of Representatives. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke helped craft the bill, and secured $4.8 million in rural infrastructure funding as well as multiple policy priorities for Montana ag producers. The bill now heads to the Senate for a vote.\n\n\"I\u2019ve made it a priority to stand up for rural America and the people who keep this country fed,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThe funding in this bill will upgrade basic infrastructure in places like Columbia Falls, Libby, and Ronan and strengthen emergency communications. And I've made sure it cracks down on foreign ownership of American farmland and strengthens food safety protections because food security is national security. Montana Farmers and Ranchers produce a gold star product, and my job is to make sure they have the infrastructure, funding, and administration policy to back them.\u201d\n\nCongressman Zinke\u2019s Community Project Funding requests included in the bill:\n\nConfederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, $187,500 \u2013 Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Emergency Comms\n\nFlathead County, $2,325,000 \u2013 City of Columbia Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Phase 1\n\nLake County, $69,000 - Charlo Volunteer Fire Department\n\nLake County, $259,612 \u2013 Lake County Office of Emergency Management Communication Tower Replacements\n\nLincoln County, $1,000,000 \u2013 City of Libby Water Filtration Phase 1\n\nLake County, $1,000,000 \u2013 Ronan Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrade Phase 1\n\nAg priorities included in the bill:\n\nAnimal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)\n\nProvides $1.16 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to protect American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases, including High-Path Avian Influenza, New World Screwworm, and other foreign plant and animal threats. This funding supports rapid response capabilities and strengthens protections for American producers and food supply chains.\n\nForeign Ownership of Agricultural Land\n\nStrengthens oversight of foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land by improving tracking systems and adding the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) for reviews of agricultural land transactions involving foreign adversaries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. This increases transparency and helps safeguard American farmland and food security.\n\nPulse Crop Health Initiative\n\nProvides an additional $500,000 for research into the health and nutritional benefits of pulse crops, including dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans. Montana is one of the nation\u2019s leading pulse crop producers, and this research supports market development and producer competitiveness.\n\nPrecision Livestock Management Research\n\nMaintains funding for precision livestock management research focused on maximizing rangeland resources for beef cattle and sheep production while maintaining vegetation diversity, healthy soils, and resilient plant communities. This research is particularly important for western rangelands during fall and winter grazing seasons.\n\nSemi-Arid West Soil Health Research\n\nMaintains funding for soil health research across integrated cropland and rangeland systems in the semi-arid West. Research will integrate emerging sensor technologies and modeling tools to help producers better assess and manage soils while supporting public lands and livestock production.\n\nBarley Pest Initiative\n\nIncreases funding for the Barley Pest Initiative to support research addressing major threats to sustainable and profitable barley production and utilization. Montana is one of the top barley-producing states in the country, and this research helps protect yields and strengthen agricultural markets.\n\nFood Safety and Inspection Service\n\nIncreases resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to support frontline meat and poultry inspectors and strengthen state inspection programs. This helps maintain food safety standards while supporting livestock producers and meat processing operations.\n\nFarm Service Agency Staffing\n\nIncreases overall funding for Farm Service Agency staffing, including county office staff, helping improve service delivery and support for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-passes-us-house", "DOWNING BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s bill, H.R. 7250, legislation to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The bill will help ensure critical water infrastructure projects continue moving forward across northeastern Montana.\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves both tribal and non-tribal communities across the region.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation\u2019s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028.\n\n\u201cAccess to clean, reliable water is essential for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities in northeastern Montana,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud the House passed my bill to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this critical project moving forward. I urge the Senate to pass this legislation so we can send it to the President\u2019s desk and continue investing in the infrastructure Montanans depend on.\u201d\n\nHouse Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing\u2019s work to strengthen water infrastructure in northeastern Montana.\n\n\u201cWhere reliable water flows, opportunity and prosperity follow. H.R. 7250 reauthorizes the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System, helping ensure families, farmers and businesses in northeastern Montana continue to have access to dependable water supplies,\" said Chairman Westerman. I commend Rep. Downing for his commitment to strengthening critical water infrastructure and supporting Montana\u2019s future.\u201d\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was designed to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends authorization for the project for an additional two years to ensure continued construction and infrastructure development throughout the region.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:11:26Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-honors-glacier-range-riders-and-brash-rodeo-congressional-records", "Zinke Honors The Glacier Range Riders and Brash Rodeo with Congressional Records", "2026-05-29", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Flathead Valley, MT \u2013 Yesterday, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke honored two Flathead Valley institutions, the Brash Rodeo and the Glacier Range Riders, recognizing each organization with a Congressional Record entered into the official record of the United States Congress. The honors celebrated the lasting impact both organizations have had on Montana\u2019s western heritage, local economy, and community traditions.\n\nFor years, the Brash Rodeo has carried forward Montana\u2019s deep ranching and rodeo traditions, bringing together competitors and spectators from across the region and the world to celebrate the western way of life. Located at Majestic Valley Arena beside the historic Blue Moon Nite Club, the rodeo has become a gathering place for Montanans and visitors alike, showcasing events that reflect the grit and skills of working ranch families across the West.\n\nLikewise, the Glacier Range Riders have become a major source of community pride in the Flathead, drawing thousands of fans to professional baseball while supporting local businesses, tourism, and family entertainment throughout the valley. Since their founding in 2021, the Range Riders and Glacier Bank Park have quickly established themselves as cornerstones of summer in Northwest Montana, bringing America\u2019s pastime back to the Flathead and creating a venue where families and neighbors can come together.\n\nCongressman Zinke presented the Congressional Records during ceremonies honoring each organization and their contributions to Montana culture and community life. Zinke also threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the Range Riders game.\n\nSections of the Congressional Records and photos are included below.\n\nCongressional Record honoring the Glacier Range Riders and photos:\n\n\u201cFrom the name of the team to the stadium, even the logo has a history. The Glacier Range Riders\u2019 logo reflects the rich cultural heritage of Montana and pays homage to the Native American traditions that remain an important part of our state\u2019s identity. The arrowhead design honors the history of the region while serving as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and community. Like the game of baseball itself, the logo brings people together to celebrate Montana\u2019s history and create new memories for future generations.\n\nMore than a baseball team, the Glacier Range Riders have created a place where families can gather, veterans can be honored, and lasting memories can be made. Each summer, friends and neighbors come together at the ballpark to enjoy America\u2019s pastime, celebrate their community, and share experiences that span generations. In an age when opportunities to bring people together are increasingly important, the Range Riders have created a venue that strengthens community ties and shows the very best of Montana. Throughout the summer months, thousands gather to watch the Range Riders, making a trip to the ballpark, another memorable part of the Flathead Valley experience.\n\nBeyond the game itself, the Glacier Range Riders have had a meaningful impact on the local economy and community. The organization has helped attract visitors to Northwest Montana, supported local businesses, and created opportunities for young athletes to engage in the sport. The team\u2019s success demonstrates that professional sports can thrive in Montana while remaining closely connected to the people and communities they represent.\u201d\n\nView more photos from the event here and the full Congressional Record here.\n\nCongressional Record honoring the Brash Rodeo and photos:\n\n\u201cLocated in the Flathead Valley at the Majestic Valley Arena beside the historic Blue Moon Nite Club, the Brash Rodeo is deeply rooted in the community. For generations, the Blue Moon has brought people together through hospitality and entertainment, while the Brash Rodeo carries forward Montana\u2019s western traditions in the arena just outside its doors. Together, they have become gathering places where families, friends, and visitors create lasting memories and experience the spirit of Montana.\n\nThe competitors who enter the arena represent a proud legacy of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, while the rodeo itself serves as a reminder of the skills that once defined daily life across the frontier. The Brash Rodeo helps preserve these traditions and share them with future generations. Within multiple events, teams of father-daughter duos compete, showcasing not only their skills on horseback but a deeply rooted family bond and tradition. These events and the Brash Rodeo.\u201d\n\nView more photos from the event here and the full Congressional Record here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-andrew-yedinak-may-montana-innovator", "Downing Honors Andrew Yedinak as May \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-05-22", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Andrew Yedinak as a \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d for the month of May. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category\u2014May is Public Safety, Justice, and Law Enforcement.\n\nRead the full recognition below:\n\nThis month, I am proud to recognize Supervisory Agent Andrew Yedinak, who has devoted his career to protecting vulnerable individuals and combating some of the most difficult crimes facing our communities.\n\nAndrew has served in law enforcement for more than two decades and joined the Montana Department of Justice in 2017. Throughout his career, he has worked in patrol, undercover narcotics operations, SWAT, major case investigations, and internet crimes against children investigations.\n\nToday, Andrew leads Montana\u2019s Human Trafficking Unit within the Division of Criminal Investigation, where he works tirelessly to protect victims and bring traffickers to justice.\n\nHis efforts have helped raise awareness about the realities of human trafficking in Montana and across the country. Through his work with survivors, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations, Andrew has become a leading voice in the fight against exploitation and abuse.\n\nIn addition to his investigative work, Andrew has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness within law enforcement, encouraging first responders to openly address the trauma and challenges they face in the line of duty.\n\nAndrew\u2019s dedication to protecting others and supporting those in need reflects the very best of Montana. It is my honor to recognize Andrew Yedinak this May as an individual who embodies the themes of public safety, justice, and law enforcement in our communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-celebrates-relaunch-abmc-flower-program-honoring-fallen-service-members", "Zinke Celebrates Relaunch of ABMC Flower Program Honoring Fallen Service Members", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke celebrated the official relaunch of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) flower program, allowing the families of fallen troops and all Americans to once again send floral arrangements to the graves of American service members buried overseas.\n\nThe program had been discontinued in 2015, creating significant challenges for Americans seeking to honor fallen loved ones at overseas cemeteries managed by the ABMC. Following bipartisan efforts led by Rep. Zinke and partners in both the House and Senate, the program has now officially resumed after more than 11 years.\n\n\u201cThis started when a few concerned families of veterans walked into my office asking why Americans could no longer easily honor their fallen heroes overseas,\u201d said Rep. Zinke. \u201cOur servicemen and women made the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom far from home, and they deserve to be remembered and honored by the country they served. I\u2019m proud we were able to work across the aisle to help bring this important program back.\u201d\n\nIn 2024, Zinke introduced the bipartisan Flowers for Fallen Heroes Act to formally authorize and modernize the flower ordering program. The legislation sought to create a user-friendly website and ordering system allowing Americans to conveniently purchase flowers for gravesites overseas using standard payment methods.\n\nThe renewed effort received broad bipartisan support in Congress, including companion legislation in the Senate led by Senators Maggie Hassan and Marsha Blackburn. The recently enacted FY2026 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill included language directing the agency to restart the initiative.\n\nThe relaunched program is now available to the public through the ABMC\u2019s official flower ordering website.\n\nTo place an order, visit: ABMC Flower Program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-passes-house", "DOWNING BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028, allowing critical water infrastructure construction projects to continue moving forward across northeastern Montana.\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was originally enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves tribal and non-tribal communities across the region.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation\u2019s authority to support construction on essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028.\n\n\u201cReliable access to clean water is critical for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities across northeastern Montana,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud my bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this important infrastructure project moving forward. This legislation will help strengthen rural communities, support long-term water security, and invest in Montana\u2019s future.\u201d\n\nRead the bill HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was created to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems.\n\nH.R. 7250 extends authorization for the project for an additional two years to ensure continued construction and infrastructure development throughout the region.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-introduce-bill-provide-clean-water-eastern-montana", "Downing, Daines, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Provide Clean Water to Eastern Montana, Authorize Construction of Dry-Redwater Rural Water System", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater rural water system, helping deliver clean and reliable water to communities across eastern Montana. U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.\n\n\u201cAccess to clean and reliable water is essential for Montana families, ranchers, farmers, and rural communities. Eastern Montana has dealt with poor water quality for far too long, and this project would deliver the long-term infrastructure needed to support our communities across the region. I\u2019m proud to support this effort to expand access to safe water, strengthen rural development, and invest in the future of eastern Montana,\u201d said Downing.\n\n\u201cMontanans shouldn\u2019t have to use dirty water for drinking, eating, cleaning, or other basic necessities. The Dry-Redwater rural water system is a critical project that must be completed as soon as possible, and I\u2019ll work with Senator Sheehy and our colleagues to get this bill across the finish line,\u201d said Daines.\n\n\u201cThe construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System will be a gamechanger for Eastern Montana, ensuring reliable access to clean water for our rural communities. I\u2019m proud to lead this legislation in the Senate with Senator Daines and will fight alongside our whole delegation to ensure this project gets completed as quickly as possible,\u201d said Sheehy.\n\nRead the bill text HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Dry-Redwater rural water system would impact Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, and Richland counties- all areas which have historically suffered from very poor water quality. The system will include a water treatment plan, over 1,300 miles of pipeline, 116 miles of electrical lines, twelve pump stations, and six storage tanks.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-ryan-zinke-announces-more-25-million-airport-infrastructure-grants", "Congressman Ryan Zinke Announces More Than $25 Million in Airport Infrastructure Grants for Montana", "2026-05-12", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Office of Congressman Ryan Zinke announces more than $25 million in Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support critical infrastructure upgrades at six Montana airports. These investments will enhance safety, extend the useful life of airport facilities, and improve operations for pilots and passengers across the state.\n\n\u201cInfrastructure is a taxpayer investment not merely an expense,\" said Zinke. \"These critical investments will help maintain and improve aging and overlooked infrastructure and ensure the air transportation across our state can keep operating safely and efficiently. As a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation my job is to ensure Montana infrastructure is funded and these projects are worthy of investment.\u201d\n\nThe funding will support runway, taxiway, apron, lighting, drainage, and access road improvements in Hamilton, Deer Lodge, Missoula, West Yellowstone, Polson, and Bozeman.\n\nGrant Details\n\nAgency: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)\n\nProgram: Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program (AIP)\n\nRavalli County Airport (Hamilton, MT)\n\nAmount: $218,471\n\nProject: This project reseals approximately 5,200 feet of Runway 16/34 pavement, 14,120 feet of taxiway and taxilane pavement, and 43,193 square yards of apron pavement. These improvements are designed to extend the useful life of existing airfield infrastructure, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and maintain safe operating conditions for general aviation users.\n\nDeer Lodge\u2013City-County Airport (Deer Lodge, MT)\n\nAmount: $13,477,194\n\nProject: This comprehensive airfield modernization project includes construction of a new 2,840-foot Taxiway A and a new 400-foot Taxilane B to improve airfield access and compliance with current standards. It also includes extension of Runway 13/31 by 1,200 feet, rehabilitation of 5,800 feet of existing runway pavement, reconstruction of runway lighting, and replacement of navigational aids including wind cone, segmented circle, and rotating beacon. Additional work includes installation of an AWOS III P(T) weather system, drainage improvements, expansion of the general aviation apron by 4,570 square yards, and installation of runway end identifier lights and precision approach path indicators to enhance safety and situational awareness for pilots.\n\nMissoula Montana Airport (Missoula, MT)\n\nAmount: $3,395,019\n\nProject: This project rehabilitates approximately 9,500 feet of Taxiway A and reconstructs Taxiway H signage and pavement. It also includes resurfacing and sealing of Taxiway H segments to reduce foreign object debris and maintain pavement integrity, extending the useful life of critical airfield infrastructure.\n\nYellowstone Airport (West Yellowstone, MT)\n\nAmount: $650,966\n\nProject: This project rehabilitates approximately 2,725 feet of the terminal airport access road, improving surface conditions and extending the service life of a key access corridor supporting airport operations.\n\nPolson Airport (Polson, MT)\n\nAmount: $119,000\n\nProject: This project constructs approximately 11,920 feet of perimeter fencing and 10 access gates to enhance airport security and bring the facility into compliance with current federal aviation safety standards.\n\nBozeman Yellowstone International Airport (Bozeman, MT)\n\nAmount: $7,559,396\n\nProject: This project extends Taxiway B by approximately 7,100 feet to improve airfield capacity and operational efficiency. The work supports continued growth in aviation demand and ensures compliance with current FAA design standards for safe aircraft movement.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-partners-act-grant-states-enforcement-authority-over", "DOWNING INTRODUCES PARTNERS ACT TO GRANT STATES ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY OVER MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS", "2026-05-11", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Protecting Authority and Restoring Tools Necessary for Enforcement by Regulatory States Act of 2026, or the \u201cPARTNERS Act of 2026,\u201d legislation to grant states the ability to enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage (MA) plan requirements.\n\nUnder current law, states are largely preempted from independently enforcing standards on Medicare Advantage plans, leaving federal regulators as the sole enforcement authority. The PARTNERS Act would create a parallel state enforcement track allowing states to require MA organizations operating within their borders to comply with existing federal MA requirements.\n\nImportantly, the legislation does not create any new standards or mandates for Medicare Advantage plans. Instead, it grants enforcement tools to states and strengthens coordination between federal and state regulators.\n\n\u201cStates should not be forced to sit on the sidelines when it comes to enforcing standards for Medicare Advantage plans,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe PARTNERS Act grants commonsense enforcement authority to states while improving coordination with federal regulators, allowing states and CMS to work together through collaborative enforcement agreements. This bill is about accountability, consumer protection, and ensuring the rules already on the books are properly enforced.\u201d\n\nThe legislation also directs the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate enforcement efforts with states where Medicare Advantage organizations are licensed or operate.\n\nBackground:\n\nCurrent law preempts states from enforcing their own standards on Medicare Advantage plans, even when those plans are sold and operated within their borders. The PARTNERS Act amends Section 1856(b)(3) of the Social Security Act to clarify that states may independently enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage requirements.\n\nThe legislation does not establish new Medicare Advantage standards. Instead, it empowers states to enforce the standards already established under federal law and encourages coordination between federal and state regulators.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-accelerating-forest-management-act", "Downing Introduces the Accelerating Forest Management Act", "2026-05-07", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Troy Downing introduced the Accelerating Forest Management Act, legislation to codify the Bureau of Land Management\u2019s proposed National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) categorical exclusion for timber salvage projects in order to speed up active forest management, reduce wildfire risk, and support rural economies.\n\nThe legislation would permanently authorize streamlined environmental reviews for routine timber salvage projects up to 5,000 acres on BLM lands, helping federal land managers remove dead and dying timber before it fuels catastrophic wildfire.\n\n\u201cMontanans know firsthand the devastation catastrophic wildfires can bring to our communities, forests, and economy,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cFor too long, burdensome red tape and delayed environmental reviews have prevented timely forest management projects from moving forward. The Accelerating Forest Management Act restores commonsense tools to quickly remove dead and hazardous timber, reduce wildfire fuel loads, and support the rural communities, mills and jobs that rely on healthy forests.\u201d\n\nThis legislation also includes a 7-year reauthorization of the Forest Ecosystem Health and Recovery Fund, ensuring BLM has the resources needed to effectively respond to wildfires and support proactive forest health and risk reduction activities.\n\nBackground:\n\nIn 2024, the Biden administration removed longstanding timber harvest authorities from the Bureau of Land Management, limiting the agency\u2019s ability to efficiently conduct salvage harvesting and thinning projects following severe wildfire seasons across the West.\n\nThe Bureau of Land Management recently proposed two new categorical exclusions under NEPA to restore and expand streamlined review authorities for routine timber salvage and thinning projects. The proposed exclusions would apply to projects up to 5,000 acres, replacing current limits of 250 acres for salvage projects and 70 acres for thinning projects.\n\nCategorical exclusions apply to categories of actions determined not to have significant environmental impacts, eliminating the need for lengthy environmental reviews and helping projects move forward more efficiently.\n\nOver the past three decades, forests across the western United States have experienced widespread die-offs caused by wildfire, insect infestations, drought and disease. Since 2000, wildfires have burned an average of 7.3 million acres annually nationwide, including more than 236,000 acres annually on BLM lands.\n\nBy streamlining routine forest management projects, the Accelerating Forest Management Act would help reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health, preserve timber value, sustain rural timber jobs and support local forest product industries across the West.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-allied-defense-sales-act-boost-us-manufacturing-and", "Zinke Introduces Allied Defense Sales Act to Boost U.S. Manufacturing and Strengthen Alliances", "2026-05-04", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman and Foreign Military Sales Task Force Chairman Ryan Zinke and Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA-06), members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, introduced the Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing by making it easier for allies to jointly purchase American-made defense equipment, while deepening strategic partnerships abroad.\n\nThe bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries that share similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for U.S. manufacturers.\n\n\"Our allies should be fighting adversaries, not red tape,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThis bipartisan bill helps keep production lines hot, improves our allies\u2019 ability to work together, and ensures the United States remains the security partner of choice for nations in the fight for freedom.\u201d\n\n\u201cStrengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex world,\u201d said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation will help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver capabilities more efficiently. By encouraging these kinds of \u2018group buys,\u2019 we can support smaller partners, bolster our domestic industrial base, strengthen our defense relationships, and better meet shared security challenges around the world.\u201d\n\nUnder current systems, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to buy U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can slow down orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible, coordinated approach, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, helping generate more consistent demand for U.S.-made systems.\n\nThe legislation directs the Department of State to assess interest among allied nations, identify potential lead coordinator countries for joint purchases, recommend ways to streamline approvals and licensing, and increase the exportability of defense articles and services. It also explores ways to expand access to financing tools and speed up sales outside traditional programs, ensuring American defense companies can respond more quickly to allied demand.\n\nThe bill now heads to committee for further consideration.\n\nRead the full text of the bill HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:21:02Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-larry-mayer-april-montana-innovator", "Downing Honors Larry Mayer as April \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Larry Mayer as a \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d for the month of April. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category\u2014April is news and media.\n\nRead Congressman Downing\u2019s Congressional Record submission HERE or below:\n\n\u201cIn honor of America\u2019s 250th birthday, Montana\u2019s congressional delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation.\n\n\u201cThis month, I am proud to highlight Montana\u2019s rich communities and the power of visual storytelling by celebrating a dedicated photojournalist who has spent decades documenting the people, places, and events that define the Treasure State: Larry Mayer.\n\n\u201cLarry Mayer, a photographer with The Billings Gazette, has worked in photojournalism for nearly 50 years, capturing and preserving the stories of communities across Montana.\n\n\u201cHaving worked with Larry during my time in Congress and previously as Montana State Auditor, I have come to admire his calm demeanor, kindness, and ability to connect with everyone.\n\n\u201cLarry\u2019s commitment to photojournalism drew international attention when he identified the Chinese spy balloon as it crossed over Montana.\n\n\u201cCapturing both everyday moments and historic events is part of the very fabric of our state. With Larry Mayer behind the lens, those stories will continue to be told for generations to come.", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/farm-bill-passes-house-zinke-secures-huge-wins-repeal-cottonwood-support", "Farm Bill Passes House: Zinke Secures Huge Wins to Repeal Cottonwood, Support Farmers & Ranchers, Improve Wildlife Conservation", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the House passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, commonly known as the Farm Bill. A comprehensive piece of legislation designed to strengthen American agriculture, support rural communities, and improve forest and land management. The bill includes six provisions sponsored or co-sponsored by Zinke, notably codifying a permanent fix to the disastrous Cottonwood Decision that has strangled forest management in Montana for over a decade.\n\n\u201cThe Farm Bill gives farmers and ranchers the certainty they need to keep doing what they do best and keeps the communities around them strong and stable,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cIt preserves food assistance for those who truly need it while cutting waste and fraud and making sure families have access to nutritious food. It supports rural economies, strengthens basic infrastructure so it actually works for the people who live there, and helps folks get access to the health services they rely on without having to leave their towns. It also pushes smarter forest management to reduce wildfire risk and keep our lands healthier for the long haul. At the end of the day, this bill is about keeping American agriculture and small towns strong and built to last.\u201d\n\nThe Farm Bill, typically reauthorized every five years, has been operating under an extension since 2023. This legislation reauthorizes and modernizes key USDA programs through 2031, providing long-term stability for producers.\n\nKey provisions of the Farm Bill include:\n\nExpands access to credit and risk management tools for farmers and ranchers facing tough economic conditions\n\nImproves SNAP with stronger accountability and a greater focus on healthier outcomes, without increasing federal spending\n\nBolsters support for specialty crop producers and domestic fruit and vegetable production\n\nStreamlines conservation programs and strengthens management of working lands and federal forests\n\nEnhances export promotion efforts to help address the agricultural trade deficit\n\nModernizes rural development and energy programs and increases investment in research\n\nProtects interstate livestock commerce and maintains access to critical crop protection tools\n\nThe legislation is supported by more than 500 agricultural and stakeholder organizations and maintains budget neutrality while preserving savings achieved through the One Big Beautiful Bill.\n\nZinke provisions included in the bill\n\nHabitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act\n\nThe bill directs USDA to provide more resources and incentives for farmers and ranchers to improve habitat connectivity and wildlife movement on working lands, prioritizing wildlife corridors within critical conservation areas under the Regional Conservation Partnership Program and building on efforts like Wyoming\u2019s Big Game Conservation Partnership. It encourages practices like virtual fencing to better manage livestock and expand USDA research and guidance on connectivity tools. Congressman Zinke has long led on this issue, including as Secretary of the Interior when he signed Secretarial Order 3362 in 2018 to work with western states on improving big-game winter range and migration corridors on federal lands while respecting state authority and private property rights, a framework that helped states like Wyoming protect key mule deer migration corridors in southwest Wyoming.\n\nFIR Act (Cottonwood Fix)\n\nThe bill provides a permanent legislative fix to the Cottonwood court decision by limiting when the U.S. Forest Service must reinitiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to cases involving substantial new developments or changes to forest management plans. It will reduce delays that have stalled logging and forest management projects, address backlogs, and improve wildfire response and habitat management across Montana and the West. Zinke has previously introduced similar legislation in 2016 and 2023, both of which drew bipartisan and conservation support.\n\nThe Cottonwood decision stems from a 2015 ruling by Obama-appointed U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen in Cottonwood Environmental Law Center v. U.S. Forest Service, after a lawsuit brought by the Bozeman-based environmental group the Cottonwood Environmental Law Center. The ruling forced the Forest Service to reopen Endangered Species Act consultations on already approved forest plans, giving activist groups a pathway to repeatedly relitigate projects and tie them up in court. Since then, Montana has become the most litigated states in the country for timber harvesting, with projects delayed or halted, closing mills and leaving loggers and rural counties left in limbo. The decision has blocked common-sense forest management like thinning and fuels reduction, increasing wildfire risk while undercutting a key part of Montana\u2019s economy.\n\nLegislation cosponsored by Zinke included in the Bill\n\nH.R. 4713 Rural Hospital Technical Assistance Program Act \u2013 Provides resources and guidance to help rural hospitals remain operational and expand access to care\n\nH.R. 3361 Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025 \u2013 Extends successful forest restoration efforts that reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health\n\nH.R.178 - To require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out activities to suppress wildfires, and for other purposes \u2013 Strengthens the Forest Service\u2019s ability to carry out wildfire suppression and prevention activities\n\nH.R. 179 Proven Forest Management Act of 2025 \u2013 Promotes active forest management to reduce forest fuels (dead and dying timber, etc.) and prevent catastrophic wildfires.\n\nThe bill now heads to the Senate for a vote.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T21:44:12Z", "2026-06-27T22:19:40Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-daines-sheehy-downing-send-letter-bureau-reclamation-requesting-funds", "Zinke, Daines, Sheehy, Downing Send Letter to Bureau of Reclamation Requesting Funds to Repair St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal", "2026-04-28", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressmen Ryan Zinke and Troy Downing (MT-02), as well as U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy today sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation requesting funding to repair the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal.\n\n\u201cWe write to urge full and fair consideration of the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal of the Milk River Project (Project) in northwestern Montana to be an authorized recipient of funding as appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, titled under \u201cWater Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement.\u201d\n\nWhen the Canal was originally constructed in 1915, it had the capacity to divert up to 850 cubic feet per second (cfs). However, due to its age, capacity has declined to only 600 cfs. This reduction in capacity is leading to a loss of more than 100-million-acre feet that\u2019s flowing across the border into Canada every day\u2026\n\n\u2026While two out of the five Drops have been successfully replaced, failure of the remaining three is imminent. As you may know, Drop 5 failed in 2020 and the Siphon failed in 2025, leading to the complete loss of the irrigation season for local and regional producers, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars lost. The failure of any three remaining Drops could once again lead to catastrophic failure and severe economic loss.\n\nFunding under \u201cWater Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement\u201d was designated specifically for \u201cconstruction and associated activities that restore or increase the capacity or use of existing conveyance facilities constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation.\u201d The current fragility of the system speaks to the dire need to restore this key infrastructure to protect our precious water resources,\u201d they wrote in the letter.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-and-zinke-send-letter-bureau-reclamation-requesting", "Downing, Daines, Sheehy, and Zinke Send Letter to Bureau of Reclamation Requesting Funds  to Repair St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal", "2026-04-28", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) and Congressmen Ryan Zinke (MT-01), as well as U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, today sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation encouraging the use of funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to support repairs to the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal.\n\n\u201cWe write to urge full and fair consideration of the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal of the Milk River Project (Project) in northwestern Montana to be an authorized recipient of funding as appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, titled under \u201cWater Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement. \u201d\n\nWhen the Canal was originally constructed in 1915, it had the capacity to divert up to 850 cubic feet per second (cfs). However, due to its age, capacity has declined to only 600 cfs. This reduction in capacity is leading to a loss of more than 100-million-acre feet that\u2019s flowing across the border into Canada every day\u2026\n\n\u2026While two out of the five Drops have been successfully replaced, failure of the remaining three is imminent. As you may know, Drop 5 failed in 2020 and the Siphon failed in 2025, leading to the complete loss of the irrigation season for local and regional producers, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars lost. The failure of any three remaining Drops could once again lead to catastrophic failure and severe economic loss.\n\nFunding under \u201cWater Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement\u201d was designated specifically for \u201cconstruction and associated activities that restore or increase the capacity or use of existing conveyance facilities constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation.\u201d The current fragility of the system speaks to the dire need to restore this key infrastructure to protect our precious water resources,\u201d they wrote in the letter.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-daines-sheehy-send-letter-usps-urging-reopening-baker-post", "ICYMI: Downing, Daines, Sheehy Send Letter to USPS Urging the Reopening of the Baker Post Office", "2026-04-20", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), alongside U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT), sent a letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) expressing concerns with the closure of the Baker Post Office and urging the agency to reopen and improve service for constituents.\n\n\u201cNearly a year later, Baker residents are still relying on temporary outdoor distribution units to access their mail. While we appreciate USPS\u2019s efforts to establish interim services in Baker, the current arrangement is not a sustainable solution and falls short of the needs of Montanans, especially as we approach the summer heat and look ahead to another Montana winter.\n\n\u201c\u2026Under the current system, residents must retrieve their mail directly from a USPS employee during limited operating hours. The lack of an indoor facility has led to extended wait times with constituents required to stand outside in Montana\u2019s often extreme weather conditions. For working families, seniors, and those with mobility challenges, these conditions present real hardship and raise concerns for their safety. We understand that USPS previously explored options to provide Baker with an indoor unit with P.O. box access ahead of winter, but that this solution was not implemented. Additionally, our offices have not received a defined timeline for completion of repairs to the original building.\n\n\u201c\u2026Rural Montanans rely upon the USPS for the timely delivery of essential items, including prescriptions, jury summons, bills, and other correspondence critical to small businesses and keeping families connected. As strong supporters of the USPS, we urge you take immediate steps to improve service conditions and identify options for indoor access. We also request an update on the status of repairs to the Baker facility, a clear timeline for reopening, and interim steps USPS will take to ensure safe and reliable access to mail,\u201d they wrote in the letter.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-24T06:25:30Z", "2026-06-24T06:26:49Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/over-10-million-secure-rural-schools-funding-headed-montana-counties", "Over $10 million in Secure Rural Schools funding headed to Montana counties", "2026-04-15", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the U.S. Forest Service announced it will distribute $248 million in Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payments for Fiscal Year 2025, including more than $10 million for Montana\u2019s First Congressional District. The payments support critical infrastructure, rural schools and fund essential local services in communities surrounded by federally managed lands.\n\n\u201cSecure Rural Schools is a commitment to communities like ours that live with the reality of federal land ownership every day,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cWhen Washington controls the land, it has a responsibility to help keep our roads maintained, our schools open, and our first responders supported. Timber communities have been hit especially hard with radical environmental organizations and activist judges stalling timber sales and cutting off reliable sources of revenue. After the lapse in 2023, counties were left in limbo. This funding provides needed relief and restores a measure of certainty.\u201d\n\nThe announcement follows passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, which Congressman Zinke sponsored to ensure continued payments through FY2026 and restore lapsed funding. Zinke has consistently pushed for long-term certainty for timber-dependent and forested communities, arguing that counties with large amounts of federal land should not be left at a disadvantage.\n\nMontana county funding breakdown (MT-01)\n\nBeaverhead County \u2014 $923,911.02\n\nDeer Lodge County \u2014 $178,409.30\n\nFlathead County \u2014 $973,971.32\n\nGallatin County \u2014 $188,457.00\n\nGlacier County \u2014 $34,690.56\n\nGranite County \u2014 $594,901.75\n\nLake County \u2014 $57,833.79\n\nLincoln County \u2014 $3,609,891.82\n\nMadison County \u2014 $314,327.84\n\nMineral County \u2014 $857,047.13\n\nMissoula County \u2014 $523,289.83\n\nPondera County \u2014 $72,007.32\n\nPowell County \u2014 $630,469.84\n\nRavalli County \u2014 $611,524.64\n\nSanders County \u2014 $1,436,653.22\n\nSilver Bow County \u2014 $124,603.93\n\nTotal (MT-01): $10,131,989.25\n\nBackground\n\nThe Secure Rural Schools program was originally enacted in 2000 to offset declining revenues from timber harvests and other federal land uses. These funds are primarily directed toward schools, infrastructure, and public safety services in counties with significant federal land holdings.\n\nAfter lapsing in 2023, the program was reauthorized through bipartisan legislation signed into law in December 2025. The reauthorization ensured retroactive payments and restored stability for rural communities that rely on these funds.\n\nCongressman Zinke has been a consistent voice in advocating for responsible forest management, increased timber production, and long-term certainty for programs like SRS that directly support Montana communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-11T06:38:38Z", "2026-06-11T06:41:07Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-nominates-19-western-montana-projects-federal-funding-totaling-over-100", "Zinke Nominates 19 Western Montana Projects for Federal Funding Totaling Over 100 Million Dollars", "2026-04-06", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "*This press release has been edited to reflect the updated funding amount for the Law Enforcement 8 County Memorandum of Understanding.\n\nWashington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that he requested $101,923,449 of federal funding for 19 projects in Western Montana to improve infrastructure, boost affordable housing construction, improve water dependability, disaster preparedness, and law enforcement and first responders\u2019 capabilities. The requests were submitted to the House Appropriations Committee, of which he is a member. The projects would benefit communities in the following counties and tribes: Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Beaverhead, Butte-Silver Bow (2), Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Flathead (4), Gallatin, Glacier, Granite, Lake (5), Lincoln (2), Missoula (2), Pondera, Ravalli (2), Sanders (2). The projects are posted on Congressman Zinke\u2019s website for public inspection here and listed below.\n\n\u201cMy mission as Representative of Montana\u2019s Western district is to listen to the front lines and make their priorities my priorities,\u201d said Zinke. \"These projects come directly from Montana\u2019s county commissioners, sheriffs, fire chiefs, and city officials. They support our law enforcement and first responders, repair aging critical infrastructure, secure water systems, and improve disaster readiness across the region. Working shoulder to shoulder with local leaders, I am putting forward shovel ready projects that meet the real needs of our communities and make disciplined use of taxpayer dollars. This is about telling D.C. what Montana needs, and not the other way around, preserving our Montana way of life, while making sure that our communities have the resources they need to succeed.\n\nThe submissions were made through the U.S. House of Representatives Community Project Funding program, which allows Congress to direct appropriations from specific grant accounts to eligible projects. All projects must meet the published grant requirements and pass a series of legislative hurdles. Every project must be approved by the House Appropriations Committee, the full House of Representatives and be included in the joint funding package approved by the House and Senate to then finally be signed by the President. In Fiscal Year 2026, Zinke successfully secured over $36 million in funding for Western Montana.\n\nProposed projects include:\n\n*Projects listed by county in alphabetical order\n\nAnaconda-Deer Lodge, Beaverhead, Butte-Silver Bow, Glacier, Lake, Lincoln, Pondera, Sanders, $3,976,739\u2013 Law Enforcement 8 County Memorandum of Understanding\n\nWestern Montana\u2019s rural counties have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to purchase much-needed law enforcement vehicles and equipment which allows each county sheriff and local law enforcement agency to negotiate lower prices and save tax dollars. By buying communications equipment in bulk, this also ensures the different law enforcement agencies can effectively communicate with each other when jointly responding to emergencies and incidents. This funding will purchase patrol vehicles, body scanners, radios, telecom equipment, and protective gear, as well as provide much needed safety upgrades to facilities.\n\nButte-Silver Bow County, $15,000,000 \u2013 Critical Minerals Extraction Advancements by Montana Tech\n\nOur national and economic security rely on a reliable supply of critical and rare earth minerals. Unfortunately, the U.S. sources many of those materials from adversarial countries which have the ability to manipulate global prices, drive out U.S. and allied competitors, and simply turn off the supply. Increasing domestic supplies of these minerals is vitally important. This funding will allow Montana Technological University, a global leader in mining engineering, to develop a critical minerals recovery facility which will provide a late-stage testing ground for technologies and methods aimed at extracting critical minerals from ores and mining-related wastes. This will increase the U.S. mineral output and improve our environmental stewardship by recycling previously discarded materials from existing mines.\n\nConfederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, $250,000 \u2013 Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Emergency Comms\n\nThis funding will support law and order and enhance officer safety for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes by replacing antiquated emergency services dispatch communications systems and equipment. The improvements to the dispatch center will be a benefit to all residents of the Flathead Reservation spanning Lake, Sanders, Missoula, and Flathead Counties. Clear communication among tribal, local and state emergency service dispatch centers, first responders, law enforcement, and other emergency service providers during any and all emergency situations is paramount to a successful and safe outcome for all involved. CSKT provides primary law enforcement and investigative services on the Flathead Reservation which encompasses four Montana counties: Lake, Sanders, Missoula and Flathead. Similarly, CSKT provides critical wildland fire protection on the Reservation and throughout the region. CSKT\u2019s dispatch center is critical to engaging appropriate emergency service providers on the Reservation and in western Montana.\n\nFlathead County, $3,000,000 \u2013 Bigfork Water Sewer District West Trunk Sewer Project\n\nThe West Trunk Sewer Project is a critical investment in modernizing aging wastewater infrastructure serving the Bigfork community and protecting the water quality of Flathead Lake. Key portions of the existing system date back to the 1960s and are increasingly prone to failure, creating risks of sewer overflows and environmental contamination. This funding will support the replacement of deteriorating sewer mains, construction of a properly sized lift station, and targeted improvements to reduce groundwater infiltration into the system. These upgrades will improve reliability, support future residential and commercial growth, and ensure the wastewater system can meet current and long-term demand. Federal support will also help reduce the financial burden on local ratepayers while addressing a critical infrastructure need.\n\nFlathead County, $3,100,000 \u2013 City of Columbia Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Phase 1\n\nColumbia Falls is a working-class family neighborhood in Northwest Montana, home to much of the region\u2019s teachers, law enforcement officers, and railroad, timber and manufacturing workforce. While many people work in towns 15-20 miles away, Columbia Falls remains an affordable option with good schools for many working families. However recently the city has been forced to limit new commercial and residential development because the existing wastewater treatment plant is nearing its effective treatment capacity. This not only limits the supply of affordable family housing in the area but it also puts water quality at risk. This funding will allow for upgrades to the existing wastewater treatment plant, allowing it to increase capacity and meet higher environmental and public health standards.\n\nFlathead County, $3,653,000 \u2013 Evergreen Flood Resiliency and Groundwater Quality Improvements\n\nFlathead County\u2019s Evergreen area sits within the Flathead River floodplain, where aging septic systems and wastewater infrastructure are highly vulnerable to flooding and groundwater infiltration. These conditions create a serious risk of untreated sewage entering and contaminating drinking water sources, threatening public health, local fisheries, and the broader Flathead watershed. While a portion of this project has been funded, critical areas remain unaddressed due to limited resources. This funding will replace outdated septic systems and failing wastewater infrastructure with modern, flood-resilient sewer facilities, reducing health risks and improving long-term system reliability. Investing in this project will protect water quality and prevent more costly emergency repairs in the future.\n\nFlathead County, $3,000,000 \u2013 Lakeside Wastewater System Improvements Project Phase 1\n\nThe communities of Lakeside and Sommers, Montana, sit on the shores of Flathead Lake. Since 1987 when their sewage treatment plant was constructed, these communities have grown by roughly 700%. The plant, originally built to support roughly 400 residents, now services more than 3,400 residents and hundreds of businesses. This project would upgrade the nearly 40-year-old wastewater treatment facility to provide reliable and safe drinking water and also strengthen environmental safeguards related to the protection of Flathead Lake. Flathead Lake is an important economic engine in Northwest Montana. In 2023, an estimated more than 320,000 people visited Flathead Lake State Park. Visitors generated tens of millions of dollars in consumer spending which in turn supported local tax revenue and jobs. Maintaining the water quality of Flathead Lake is important to Montana\u2019s tourism industry, which significantly contributes to the State\u2019s economy. This project solves a county wide need by producing a centralized location to dispose of septage and a more thorough treatment of this waste.\n\nGallatin County, $2,000,000 \u2013 Belgrade Police Department Emergency Operations Center\n\nThe City of Belgrade, Montana, is the fastest growing city in the state and has rapidly outgrown its existing public safety facilities. The current police department building was designed to serve a much smaller community and no longer provides adequate space, security infrastructure, or operational capability for modern law enforcement and emergency management needs. To address this issue in a fiscally responsible manner, the City entered into a land swap agreement with the Belgrade School District and acquired a former elementary school originally constructed in the 1950s. The building provides an opportunity to convert an existing public structure into a modern police station and local Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This funding will allow the Belgrade City Police to make significant improvements to the building and make it operational as a public safety facility.\n\nGranite County, $2,000,000 \u2013 Granite County Clean Water Infrastructure Project Phase II\n\nThe primary source of drinking water for the isolated town of Philipsburg, Montana, is an alpine reservoir surrounded by densely forested mountains. The water is pumped through a 7-mile pipeline. This pipeline recently experienced a catastrophic failure. Congress provided Phase I funding to replace the pipeline in FY25; additional funding will allow the project\u2019s completion and restore water security for the people of Philipsburg.\n\nLake County, $100,000 - Charlo Volunteer Fire Department\n\nThe communities of Charlo and Moiese (population ~400) are isolated rural towns tucked between densely forested mountains in Northwest Montana. The area is severely wildfire prone and cellular reception is sporadic at best. This funding would purchase 10 mobile radios for Charlo-Moiese Volunteer Fire Department as equipment that is used by area fire and emergency response crews.\n\nLake County, $400,000 \u2013 Lake County Office of Emergency Management Communication Tower Replacement\n\nRural communities across Lake County rely on a patchwork of aging communications infrastructure that is increasingly unreliable during emergencies, particularly in areas with limited cellular coverage and challenging terrain. First responders, law enforcement, and emergency medical services, depend on clear and consistent communication to coordinate responses to public safety incidents. This funding will modernize Lake County\u2019s emergency communication tower sites to ensure interoperability between agencies and improve response times. Strengthening these systems will enhance public safety and provide more reliable emergency services for residents across this large and rural region of Northwest Montana.\n\nLake County, $3,000,000 \u2013 Charlo Water and Sewer District Wastewater Lagoon Rehabilitation\n\nCharlo is a rural, agriculture-based community of 98 residents in Northwest Montana. The people work hard and support the community however the tax base alone is not sufficient enough to provide the necessary funds to rehabilitate the town\u2019s wastewater treatment facility. Providing access to clean water and modern infrastructure for waste disposal is a high priority nationally and locally \u2013 no matter the community size. This funding will leverage state grants and loans to fully rehabilitate the treatment facility to ensure reliable and safe drinking water for residents.\n\nLake County, $3,000,000 \u2013 Ronan Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrade Phase 1\n\nThe City of Ronan is a rural agriculture community with limited financial capacity and aging wastewater infrastructure that requires significant upgrades to meet federal regulatory standards. Reliable wastewater treatment is essential for protecting public health, maintaining environmental quality, and supporting the long-term sustainability of the community. Community Project Funding will allow the city to complete critical wastewater infrastructure improvements while maintaining affordable utility rates for Tribal and non-Tribal residents alike. The project will protect local waterways, support regulatory compliance under the Clean Water Act, and ensure reliable wastewater treatment service for approximately 2,800 residents and local businesses in the Mission Valley.\n\nLincoln County, $3,000,000 \u2013 City of Libby Water Filtration Phase 1\n\nLibby, Montana, was once a thriving timber and mining town boasting more than 3,000 kids in the school system. Today, less than 1,000 kids are enrolled as families and employers moved out of the area with the decline of extraction industries. With the deterioration of the tax base came the deterioration of public infrastructure to include the public water system. This funding will provide the city of Libby with the funds to improve the safety, reliability, and quality of the community\u2019s drinking water supply by implementing a phased water treatment strategy. Phase 1 will focus on long\u2011term repair of the existing treatment basins, designed to remove particulate matter, turbidity, and other contaminants identified in the preliminary engineering report (PER). This phase establishes the foundation for future treatment enhancements while delivering immediate public health benefits in a town that is still reeling with the lingering effects of the Libby Asbestos Superfund Site and the entire town being put under a Public Health Emergency by the EPA.\n\nMissoula County, $2,240,000 \u2013 Lolo Wastewater Well Upgrades Phase II\n\nLike many small towns across the west, Lolo is suffering growing pains, particularly when it comes to aging rural infrastructure. The Lolo water system continually fails to meet the needs of the growing rural community, putting the town at risk of degraded drinking water quality, frequent water shortages for agriculture and residential use, and increases the danger of inadequate supply for wildfire suppression. Congress allocated funding for Phase I of this project in FY25. Additional funding for Phase II will allow completion of the pumps in two wells which will increase treatment capacity and allow the system to meet the needs of the community through 2040.\n\nMissoula County, $18,616,710 \u2013 Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Phase II\n\nThe largest employer in Seeley Lake and one of the largest in Missoula County recently closed citing it was \u201ccrippled\u201d by labor shortages driven by a lack of affordable housing, inflation, and lack of reliable timber harvests. The town of Seeley Lake is a rural, isolated town that is unable to build additional housing because it does not have a municipal water system and the existing septic system is beyond capacity and is contaminating the groundwater. Building a water system will allow developers to invest in working families housing which would support reopening of the mill and other residual businesses driving economic growth in the valley.\n\nRavalli County, $3,500,000 \u2013 Old Corvallis Road Repair Phase II\n\nThe Bitterroot Valley in Ravalli County is one of the fastest growing areas in Montana. The valley is suffering growing pains related to a lack of modern infrastructure to support the growing demand, especially with the arrival of a new 140-home residential development and the expansion of two major pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities on the horizon. The valley has a single 4-lane road that carries the entirety of the county\u2019s workforce, school buses and commerce. Old Corvallis Rd has the potential to provide a second north-south corridor for Ravalli County, complete with safe walking and bike paths for commuters, and provide a much-needed secondary route for manufacturing facilities to get their product to interstate 90 to the north.\n\nRavalli County, $11,587,000 \u2013 Ravalli County Water Treatment Plant Phase II\n\nRavalli County is one of the most rapidly developing counties in Montana, and one of the greatest in need of affordable housing for working families. One of the most significant barriers to addressing the housing shortage is a lack of capacity for water and sewage treatment. After the neighboring county terminated their agreement to treat Ravalli County\u2019s sewage, septic seepage in Ravalli County has reached a dangerous level which risks water quality and environmental integrity. To address these issues and allow for further development, the county must build a water treatment plant.\n\nSanders County, $20,500,000 \u2013 Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement Phase II\n\nThis funding would replace a failing 104-year-old bridge that is on an important emergency service, school bus, and commodity transportation route. The century-old structure is now facing serious structural concerns, leading to intermittent emergency closures. This is the only bridge which links Highway 200 to the town of Noxon, an isolated town susceptible to wildfires and extreme weather events. It has developed cracks in its foundation and holes in the roadbed the size of manhole covers have opened. State and County inspectors have deemed the bridge in dire need of replacement rather than rehabilitation. Intermittent closures have already caused disruptions to daily life including delayed food deliveries and emergency services to the isolated town. Fully loaded school buses are unable to traverse the bridge; students must unload and walk across the bridge with the empty bus following after the children are safely on the other side. The Congress funded phase 1 of Noxon Bridge construction in FY25. This funding proposal covers phase II of construction which will allow the County to finish the bridge and finally restore safe and reliable transportation for the good people of Noxon.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-09T06:27:37Z", "2026-06-09T06:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-lesley-robinson-march-montana-innovator", "Downing Honors Lesley Robinson as March \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-03-31", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Lesley Robinson as a \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d for the month of March. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category\u2014March is agriculture and food.\n\nRead Congressman Downing\u2019s Congressional Record submission here or below:\n\n\u201cIn honor of America\u2019s 250th birthday, Montana\u2019s Congressional Delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation.\n\n\u201cThis March, I\u2019m proud to highlight Montana\u2019s rich agricultural history and celebrate an individual who works tirelessly to give a voice to Montana\u2019s ranching families: Lesley Robinson.\n\n\u201cLesley is the Montana Stockgrowers Association\u2019s first woman president, elected in 2024 after having served in leadership since 2000. As the owner and operator of cow-calf operation Lazy JD Cattle Co, she not only advocates for Montana\u2019s stockgrowers, she is one herself.\n\n\u201cI have had the distinct pleasure of working with Lesley and MSGA to better understand the needs of the Montanans who bring the quality beef we know and love to market. I can say without a doubt that ranching in the Treasure State has no finer advocate.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s no secret that ranching is a part of the very fabric of the Montana way of life. With Lesley Robinson in the fight, it will remain that way for generations to come.\n\n\u201cIt is my honor to recognize her this March alongside 11 other individuals who represent everything that it means to be a Montanan.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-native-american-housing-and-self-determination", "Downing Introduces Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act", "2026-03-26", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2013Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act. This legislation modernizes and reauthorizes NAHASDA, including the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) program, through 2032 to better assist the housing needs of Indian Country by providing targeted regulatory relief.\n\nThe primary law governing federal support for housing in Indian Country, the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA), has not been updated since 2008. Although Congress continues funding, its programs have not been authorized since 2013.\n\nSenators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) are leading substantially similar legislation in the Senate. Representative Janelle Bynum (OR-05) is the House Democrat co-lead.\n\nAdditional cosponsors of the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act include Representatives Tom Cole (OK-04), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Andy Barr (KY-06), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Zach Nunn (IA-01), Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Cliff Bentz (OR-02) Gwen Moore (WI-04), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Angie Craig (MN-02), Don Davis (NC-01), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), William Keating (MA-09), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03).\n\nSupporting organizations include the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Assistance Council, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), National NeighborWorks Association, Native CDFI Network, Northwest Indian Housing Association (NWIHA), Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council, South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition, Enterprise Community Partners, and United Native American Housing Association (UNAHA).\n\n\u201cHomeownership is the foundation of the American dream\u2013that doesn\u2019t stop with Americans in our tribal communities,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cIndian Country needs the stability of reauthorization to responsibly plan, finance, and maintain housing investments, along with modernized rules, regulations, and policies that unlock tribes\u2019 ability to adapt to changing economic, construction, and community realities. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle for their outpouring of support for this effort to ensure that housing is affordable for all Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, tribal communities have not had the tools they need to build and maintain affordable housing,\u201d Rep. Janelle Bynum said. \u201cThey deserve access to resources that provide long-term stability and expand pathways to homeownership, which is exactly what my bill does. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to affordable housing across every community.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany decades ago, the United States government made the commitment to tribes to help those who are living in Indian Country without adequate housing,\u201d said House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole. \u201cYet, the primary law that carries out this commitment has not been authorized since 2013 or updated since 2008. As a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest serving Native American in the House, it is a priority of mine to ensure tribal nations are represented here in Congress. This is why I co-sponsored the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act of 2026, which will modernize and reauthorize the program after all these years. I would like to thank Representatives Downing and Bynum for their work on this pivotal legislation. It is long-passed time for Congress to reauthorize these programs to address the housing needs of Indian Country.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am delighted to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in introducing the NAHASDA reauthorization,\u201d said Congresswoman Gwen Moore. \u201cI applaud Reps. Downing and Bynum\u2019s leadership on this important legislation, which is an essential part of Congress\u2019s duty to honor the constitutional trust obligation to tribes.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United Native American Housing Association applauds Rep Downing as a new leader in modernizing Indian housing programs,\u201dsaid Sharon Vogel, President, United Native American housing Association. \u201cThe proposed Modernization of NAHASDA Act is legislation that will provide a stable environment for Indian housing development which will have a positive impact on meeting the needs of our tribal communities and families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the NAHASDA Modernization Act marks a pivotal moment for Indian Country,\u201d said NAIHC\u2019s Executive Director, Rudy Soto. \u201cAs federal housing policy undergoes its most significant transformation in decades, it is deeply encouraging to see strong bipartisan leadership from Representatives Troy Downing and Janelle Bynum. This legislation ensures Tribal Nations have both a seat at the table and the tools to lead. As we honor the 30th anniversary of NAHASDA's original passage in 2026, their leadership offers real hope that Congress can come together to deliver lasting, meaningful impact for Native communities for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\"After thirteen years of expired authorization, Tribal Nations across Indian Country have never been more unified or more ready\u2014and our message to Congress is clear: the time to reauthorize and modernize NAHASDA is now,\u201d said Mark Macarro, President, National Congress of American Indians. \u201cThis legislation honors the legal federal trust responsibility while empowering Tribal Nations to govern themselves and build the homes their communities urgently need. NCAI and the Tribal leaders we represent are fully mobilized to support the House and Senate working together to find compromise. Tribal Nations will not stop until Congress gets this done.\"\n\n\u201cThe Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) thanks Rep. Downing and Rep. Bynum for introducing the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) Modernization Act of 2026. NAHASDA provides critical housing resources for American Indians, Native Hawaiians, and Alaskan Natives. This legislation makes key updates to the program, which will make it easier to utilize, and ultimately increase housing opportunities for Native American families,\u201dsaid Nadia Villagr\u00e1n, Vice President, Rural LISC.\n\n\u201cThe National NeighborWorks Association commends Representatives Downing and Bynum for their leadership on the reauthorization of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), a law that has not been updated in well over a decade,\u201d stated Lou Tisler, Executive Director of the National NeighborWorks Association. \u201cNearly 90 NeighborWorks-chartered organizations are working in Tribal communities nationwide, and this legislation delivers long-overdue modernization, removes unnecessary barriers, and reinforces Tribal self-determination in meeting housing needs. We are committed to supporting Representatives Downing and Bynum in advancing this effort and urge swift congressional action to ensure Tribal communities have the tools they need to expand housing opportunities.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor decades, NAHASDA programs have effectively served American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities by expanding access to safe, accessible, and affordable housing. BPC Action applauds Reps. Troy Downing (R-MT) and Janelle Bynum (D-OR) for introducing the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Modernization Act. Although Congress has continued to fund NAHASDA programs, this long-overdue legislation will reauthorize them for the first time since authority lapsed in 2013 and ensure that these communities have consistent funding to fully and flexibly address their housing needs,\u201dsays Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.\n\nRead original reporting on the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act in Punchbowl News here.\n\nRead Congressman Downing\u2019s Op-Ed on the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act in the Billings Gazette here.\n\nBackground:\n\nNationwide, tribal housing programs are primarily funded through the formula-based IHBG, which was created by NAHASDA. This provides over 500 tribes with funding directly to their tribally designated housing entities (TDHEs).\n\nThe IHBG program has facilitated the construction or acquisition of over 43,000 affordable housing units and the rehabilitation of more than 117,000 units. Due to the funding provided through the IHBG program since 1997, the number of distinct tribal housing programs has increased from 187 programs serving 467 tribes to 287 programs serving over 570 tribal communities.\n\nDespite these successes, tribal communities still face some of the most severe housing shortages and overcrowding in the country.\n\nKey provisions in the bill include:\n\nConsolidating environmental reviews required for federally funded tribal housing projects.\n\nExempting tribal housing projects from Build America, Buy America requirements to lower costs.\n\nPromoting tribal sovereignty by allowing tribes to set maximum rent policies.\n\nModernizing the Section 184 lending program to expand private financing options.\n\nSupporting tribal veterans by codifying the existing Tribal HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-06T06:16:30Z", "2026-06-06T06:17:47Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-111-million-federal-funding-water", "Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $11.1 Million in Federal Funding for Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement in Gallatin, Beaverhead, and Missoula Counties", "2026-03-13", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "SEELEY LAKE, MT \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Bozeman and Seeley Lake to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $11.1 million in federal funding for critical water infrastructure and law enforcement projects in Missoula, Gallatin, and Beaverhead Counties. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process.\n\n\u201cClean water and strong law enforcement, these investments are about keeping our communities safe, healthy, and prepared for the future,\u201d said Rep. Zinke. \u201cUpgrading water systems in Seeley Lake is essential to solving the affordable housing problem that caused the closure of Pyramid Lumber two years ago. And both Beaverhead and Gallatin County are dealing with rapid growth and the increase in need for law enforcement presence that comes with it. Providing new technology and vehicles for our sheriffs and police officers ensures that western Montana families and businesses have the public safety resources they need. I thank the local leaders and community members who worked with my office to secure this funding and make these projects a reality.\u201d\n\nThe day began in Bozeman, where Zinke delivered $907,000 to the Gallatin County Sheriff\u2019s Office for the purchase of Rapid DNA technology and new patrol vehicles for the Belgrade City Police. He also presented $200,000 to the Beaverhead County Sheriff\u2019s Department for new police vehicles.\n\n\u201cWe work hard to build relationships with our federal, state and local partners,\u201d said Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer. \u201cThe Rapid DNA analysis equipment will benefit the entire region in locating unknown suspects who commit felony crimes. If we can compress the timeframe from collecting evidence to identifying a suspect it allows our investigators more of an opportunity to catch up to the criminal before they commit another crime or destroy evidence. If a suspect\u2019s DNA is already in the system, we will be able to match evidence found at a scene to that individual within 90 minutes rather than hours, days, or months.\u201d\n\nCongressman Zinke then traveled to Seeley Lake, delivering a $10,000,000 check for the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant to improve the reliability and capacity of the town\u2019s sewer system.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Seeley Lake Sewer Board, I want to thank Congressman Zinke for helping secure this funding for our community,\u201d said Seeley Lake Sewer District President Tom Morris. \u201cReliable wastewater infrastructure is critical for Seeley Lake\u2019s future. The lack of sewer capacity has made it harder to build affordable housing, which means fewer places for the workers our local economy depends on. The closure of Pyramid Lumber was in part because the infrastructure simply wasn\u2019t there to support growth. This funding is an important step toward fixing that problem and helping Seeley Lake move forward.\u201d\n\nZinke was joined throughout the day by local officials and community leaders including Seeley Lake Sewer District President Tom Morris and board members, Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer, Belgrade Chief Dustin Lensing, deputies and city police personnel, and Beaverhead County Sheriff David Wendt.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-23-million-federal-funding-public-safety-and", "Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $2.3 Million in Federal Funding for Public Safety and Water Infrastructure in Powell and Granite Counties", "2026-03-12", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "DEER LODGE, MT \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Philipsburg and Deer Lodge to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating the more than $2.3 million in federal funding for public safety and water infrastructure projects in Granite and Powell counties. The funding is part of the more than $35 million he secured for Montana communities in fiscal year 2026 through the appropriations process.\n\n\u201cIn Montana everyone has a duty, and my job is to make sure our county officials and volunteer first responders have the tools to do theirs,\u201d said Rep. Zinke. \u201cIn Powell County that means making sure volunteer fire departments serving some of the most remote terrain in the state have the equipment they need to respond quickly to accidents, emergencies, and search and rescue operations. In Philipsburg, it means upgrading an aging water transmission line so residents and businesses can rely on safe, dependable water. Thank you to all the local officials and community leaders who worked with my office to bring these projects forward and get them across the finish line.\u201d\n\nThe day began in Philipsburg, where Zinke delivered $1,750,000 for upgrades to Philipsburg's water transmission line. The project will improve the reliability of the town\u2019s water system and help ensure residents and businesses have dependable access to clean water.\n\n\u201cUpdating Philipsburg\u2019s aging water system is long overdue, and this investment is a big first step,\u201d said Philipsburg Mayor Anne Fillmore. \u201cOur transmission line has served the community for decades, but it\u2019s time to modernize the system to ensure residents and businesses continue to have reliable access to safe, clean water. We appreciate Congressman Zinke working with our town to help move this important project forward.\u201d\n\nCongressman Zinke then traveled to Deer Lodge, where he delivered $554,969 to Powell County for equipment for volunteer fire departments. The funding will allow the rural volunteer fire department to purchase new equipment to handle the immense acreage under their jurisdiction.\n\n\u201cPowell County volunteer firefighters cover a huge area and respond to everything from structure fires to vehicle accidents and search and rescue calls,\u201d said Powell County Fire Warden and Deer Lodge Volunteer Fire Captain Chuck Smith. \u201cThis funding will help our departments purchase equipment we need to respond safely and quickly. We\u2019re grateful to Congressman Zinke for recognizing the needs of rural volunteer departments and helping us get the tools to do the job.\u201d\n\nZinke was joined throughout the day by local officials and community leaders including Philipsburg Mayor Anne Fillmore, Philipsburg town council members, grant writer Maureen Conner, Powell County Commissioners Dan Sager and Leonard Wortman, Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles, and Powell County fire chiefs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-59-million-federal-funding-infrastructure-law", "Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $5.9\u00a0Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure, Law Enforcement,\u00a0and First Responders\u00a0in Ravalli, Mineral, and Lake Counties", "2026-03-11", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "HAMILTON, MT \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Ronan, Superior, and Hamilton to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $5.9 million in federal funding for critical infrastructure and public safety projects. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process.\n\n\u201cMontana communities thrive when our infrastructure is strong and our first responders are ready for anything,\u201d said Rep. Zinke. \u201cUpgrades to wastewater systems in Ravalli County will protect our rivers and keep towns healthy. Firefighters and law enforcement in Lake and Mineral County are receiving the equipment they need to keep families safe. My goal is to make sure the front lines have the recourses they need to do the job, and these investments accomplish that goal.\u201d\n\nThe day started in Ronan, where Zinke delivered $547,500 to the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new Type 1 fire truck and $200,000 for Lake County\u2019s Law Enforcement Resiliency Project, which will help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for Lake County law enforcement.\n\n\u201cVolunteer firefighters are often the first to respond when our community needs help, and having reliable equipment can make all the difference,\u201d said Ronan Mayor and Lieutenant Volunteer Firefighter Ryan Corum. \u201cThis new Type 1 fire truck will strengthen our ability to respond to fires and emergencies across the Ronan area. We appreciate Congressman Zinke\u2019s support for rural fire departments and his recognition of the important role volunteers play in keeping our communities safe.\u201d\n\nZinke then traveled to Superior to drop of a $725,000 check for law enforcement upgrades and patrol vehicles for Mineral County.\n\n\u201cRyan Zinke\u2019s office has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a clear commitment to supporting rural communities,\u201d said Mineral County Sherrif Ryan Funke. \u201cTheir dedication to ensuring small counties are not overlooked was evident through the appropriation grant awarded to the Mineral County Sheriff\u2019 Office. That support helped make possible a five-county MOU that will strengthen cooperation and public safety across the region. It\u2019s a strong example of how responsive leadership at the federal level can directly benefit local law enforcement and the citizens we serve in Mineral County.\u201d\n\nLater in Hamilton, Zinke delivered $2,500,000 for the construction of a new Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant, $1,000,000 to repair Old Corvallis Road, and $1,000,000 to replace the Groff Lane Bridge.\n\n\u201cRavalli County is the fastest-growing county in Montana and keeping up with that growth means investing in reliable infrastructure,\u201d said Ravalli County Commissioner Jeff Burrows. \u201cProjects like the new wastewater treatment plant, improvements to Old Corvallis Road, and the replacement of the Groff Lane Bridge will improve safety, protect our natural resources, and support the needs of our growing communities. We appreciate Congressman Zinke\u2019s work to secure this funding and deliver real results for Ravalli County.\u201d\n\nZinke was joined by local officials and first responders throughout the day, including Ronan Mayor Ryan Corum, Lake County Sheriff Don Bell, members of the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department, Mineral County Commissioners Roman Zylawy, Shawn Smalley, Duane Simmons, Mineral County Sheriff Ryan Funke, Ravalli County Commissioner Jeff Burrows, and members of the Ravalli County Road Department.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-143-million-federal-funding-infrastructure-and", "Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $14.3 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure and Public Safety Projects Across Flathead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties", "2026-03-09", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "NORTHWEST MONTANA \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled across northwest Montana to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $14.3 million in federal funding he secured for infrastructure, transportation, and public safety projects across Flathead, Sanders, and Lincoln counties. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process.\n\n\u201cStates like Montana have been overlooked for too long, our infrastructure is aging and our law enforcement is underequipped for the massive acreage they cover. Replacing aging bridges, upgrading rural roads, and making sure our sheriffs and deputies have the gear they need protects families, supports local economies, and keeps Montana moving,\u201d said Congressman Zinke. \u201cThese projects were a team effort, from Sander County Commissioner Tony Cox calling me and my office near every day to the hard work of the Lincoln County Sheriff\u2019s office, we made sure this funding went to the priorities of the communities that need them most.\"\n\nThe day began in the Flathead, where Zinke delivered $1,000,000 for the installation of guardrails along North Fork Road in Flathead County. The project is in conjunction with the Flathead County Roads Department\u2019s planned repaving of the corridor.\n\n\u201cProjects like this happen when local leaders and our federal delegation work together toward a shared goal,\u201d said Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell. \u201cReplacing these guardrails might seem like a small detail, but along a road like the North Fork, it can make a real difference in protecting the people who travel it every day.\u201d\n\nZinke then traveled to Noxon, where he delivered $10,000,000 in funding for Phase 1 of the Noxon Bridge Replacement project. He also presented $965,000 for the Sanders County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project to help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for the Sanders County Sheriff\u2019s Office, and $1,150,000 to repave Marten Creek Road.\n\n\u201cSanders County thanks Congressman Ryan Zinke for securing funding for the Noxon Bridge replacement, Marten Creek Road paving, and support for the Sheriff\u2019s Office,\u201d said Sanders County Commissioner Tony Cox. \"These investments strengthen critical infrastructure, enhance public safety, and benefit the residents and communities who rely on them daily. Congressman Zinke\u2019s three visits to the Noxon Bridge demonstrate his strong commitment to supporting our community and its vital transportation links.\"\n\nThe final stop of the day was in Libby, where Zinke delivered $799,000 for the Lincoln County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project to support the purchase of new police vehicles and equipment for the Lincoln County Sheriff\u2019s Department. Zinke also presented $454,000 for repairs to the Troy Airport runway as part of the Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion project, which will help maintain reliable aviation access for emergency services and rural transportation.\n\n\u201cDeputies in Lincoln County patrol thousands of square miles, often in rough conditions and far from backup,\u201d said Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short. \u201cReliable vehicles and updated equipment make a real difference in how quickly we can respond and how safely our deputies can do their job. We appreciate Congressman Zinke recognizing the needs of rural law enforcement and helping secure this funding.\u201d\n\nZinke was joined throughout the day by local officials and community members including Flathead County Commissioners Randy Brodehl, Brad Abell, and; Sanders County Commissioners Tony Cox, John Holland, and Dan Rowen; Sanders County Sheriff Shawn Fielders; Lincoln County Commissioners Jim Hammons and Brent Teske; and Lincoln County Sheriff Darren Short.\n\nViews more photos of events here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-appointed-house-committee-natural-resources", "Downing Appointed to House Committee on Natural Resources", "2026-03-06", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following his appointment to the House Committee on Natural Resources.\n\n\u201cMontana is defined by its wealth of natural resources,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe laws and regulations impacting these resources have direct implications for the people I represent, and I could not be more excited to have a seat at the table that oversees energy production, mining, public lands, irrigation, and our tribal communities as the newest member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. I look forward to working with Chairman Westerman and my committee colleagues to advance sound policy and thank the House steering committee for this opportunity to represent the interests of central and eastern Montana.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to welcome Representative Downing to the House Committee on Natural Resources,\u201d said Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04). \u201cMontana is blessed with vast natural resources, and Representative Downing will be a key ally in unleashing American energy dominance to lower costs for American families and conserving our public lands.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nDowning represents central and eastern Montana, home to some of the largest concentrations of natural resources in the country including the nation\u2019s biggest coal deposit (Powder River Basin) and only Platinum and Palladium Mine (Stillwater Mine).\n\nBefore being elected to Congress, Downing served as Montana State Auditor where he sat on the Board of Land Commissioners, consisting of the state's five highest elected officials.\n\nNotable natural resources legislation championed by Congressman Downing include the Pet and Livestock Protection Act, ESA Amendments Act, Crowe Revenue Act, COAL POWER Act, Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act, and H.J. Res. 104 among others.\n\nDowning is a member of the Congressional Western Caucus, Public Lands Caucus, and House Financial Services Committee.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-tokuda-launch-congressional-air-medical-caucus", "Zinke, Tokuda Launch Congressional Air Medical Caucus", "2026-03-03", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) and Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02) formally launched the bipartisan Congressional Air Medical Caucus during an official kick-off event at the Cannon House Office Building, bringing together Members of Congress, industry leaders, and medical professionals to elevate awareness of the essential role air medical services play in America\u2019s emergency care system.\n\nView photos from the event here.\n\nThe caucus will educate lawmakers on the operational, clinical, and policy framework that sustains air medical services nationwide. Air ambulances serve as fully equipped mobile intensive care units, transporting critically ill and injured patients from accident scenes and rural hospitals to trauma centers, stroke centers, burn units, and other specialty facilities. In many rural and geographically isolated areas, air medical transport is the only viable option for timely access to advanced care.\n\nFor states like Montana and Hawai\u02bbi, where patients can be separated from specialty care by hundreds of miles of terrain or open ocean, air medical services are a core component of healthcare infrastructure. Nationally, air ambulance providers operate hundreds of bases and respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, supporting disaster response, interfacility transfers, and lifesaving trauma missions.\n\nThe Congressional Air Medical Caucus will focus on promoting patient access, advancing safety and clinical excellence, supporting the highly trained workforce required for round-the-clock readiness, and ensuring federal policies reflect the operational realities of air medical providers. The caucus has bipartisan and bicameral support and is endorsed by the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS).\n\n\u201cAir medical transport is often the difference between life and death in rural America,\u201d said Rep. Zinke. \u201cIn a state like Montana, where distance and weather are constant challenges, we depend on these crews to deliver critical care when every second counts. Working with Rep. Tokuda, this caucus will ensure Congress understands their mission and works to protect it.\"\n\n\u201cAir medical services are a lifeline for Hawai\u02bbi families and rural communities where emergencies are measured in minutes. They can mean the difference between life and death,\u201d said Rep. Tokuda. \u201cThat\u2019s why I am proud to join Rep. Zinke in co-leading this bipartisan effort to support the infrastructure and specialized teams providing air medical services to those most in need. Our goal is to ensure every person has access to life-saving care, regardless of where they live.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional Air Medical Caucus has bipartisan support and is endorsed by the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS).\n\n\u201cThe launch of the Congressional Air Medical Caucus is a meaningful step forward for patients and the professionals who care for them when minutes matter most,\u201d said Jana Williams, President and CEO of AAMS. \u201cPolicymakers are increasingly recognizing the critical role air medical services play in protecting 24/7 access to healthcare, especially in rural communities. AAMS looks forward to working with the caucus to ensure policy decisions are informed by frontline expertise and centered on patient outcomes.\u201d\n\nLeaders from across the air medical industry also voiced strong support\n\n\u201cAs the nation's largest not-for-profit air medical operator, serving patients across multiple states, including Hawaii and Montana, we see every day how critical air ambulance services are when minutes matter. I would like to thank Representatives Tokuda and Zinke for their leadership in establishing a caucus dedicated to understanding and strengthening this vital component of emergency care.\u201d - Ben Clayton, CEO, Life Flight Network\n\n\u201cThe formation of the Congressional Air Medical Caucus represents an important step in elevating the national dialogue around access, safety, and sustainability in air medical services. For communities across Alaska and Washington state\u2014particularly in rural, remote, and island regions\u2014air medical transport is a vital link to advanced, lifesaving care when time is critical. At UW Medicine, we see firsthand how policy stability, adequate reimbursement, and thoughtful regulation directly impact patient outcomes, operational readiness, and the ability to sustain this essential service. We look forward to partnering with members of Congress to support policies that protect access, strengthen emergency medical infrastructure, and ensure the long-term sustainability of high-quality air medical services for patients and communities across our state.\" - Jeff Richey Chief Air Medical Officer Airlift Northwest UW Medicine\n\n\u201cWe thank Representatives Zinke (R-MT) and Tokuda (D-HI) for their bipartisan leadership in launching the Congressional Air Ambulance Caucus. In communities all across the country \u2013 and especially in areas where medical facilities may be far away \u2013 air medical service is a lifeline that delivers access to critical care across vast distances, when every second matters. We look forward to working with the caucus on protecting access in Montana, Hawaii, and every state in the country.\u201d- Rob Hamilton, CEO of Air Methods\n\n\u201cGlobal Medical Response commends Representatives Zinke and Tokuda for their leadership in forming the Air Medical Caucus. Operating out of 400 air base locations nationwide, GMR\u2019s pilots, flight nurses, medics, and mechanics work together to support emergency medical transport, disaster response, and critical care missions in all 50 states. GMR stands ready to work with caucus members to ensure a policy environment that supports the dedicated air ambulance professionals who are always ready to respond at a moment\u2019s notice.\u201d - Kimberly Montgomery, President \u2013 GMR Health Systems\n\n\u201cLife Link III represents our consortium of nine health systems united by a common mission: extending clinical expertise and critical care resources beyond hospital walls, with care that begins at the patient\u2019s side and continues throughout the transport. The formation of the Congressional Air Medical Caucus provides a dedicated voice in Congress for an industry that is essential to the healthcare continuum. We are grateful to AAMS and caucus co-chairs Representatives Tokuda and Zinke for their leadership, and we look forward to working together to ensure federal policy reflects the critical role air medical services play in preserving access to care for communities across this country.\u201d - Kolby Kolbet, Chief Innovation Officer, Life Link III\n\n\u201cWhen serious injury or illness occurs, air ambulance specialized treatment and transport directly impact survival. Programs like STAT MedEvac serve as vital extensions of the healthcare system, ensuring that patients\u2014especially those in rural communities\u2014are connected swiftly to life changing medicine. We appreciate Representatives Tokuda and Zinke\u2019s leadership in launching the Congressional Air Medical Caucus and look forward to working with members to help ensure these services remain available to the patients and communities who depend on them.\u201d - Jim Houser, President/CEO UPMC Center for Emergency Medicine/STAT MedEvac\n\n\u201cI applaud Representatives Ryan Zinke and Jill Tokuda for launching the Air Medical Caucus because air medical transport is not a luxury, it is a lifeline. When seconds matter, a patient\u2019s chance at survival should never be determined by geography or ZIP code.\u201d- Michael Perkins, COO, MedFlight of Ohio | MedCare, AAMS Board Member\n\nBackground\n\nCongressman Zinke has long led efforts to protect access to air ambulance services for veterans and rural communities. In 2024, following sustained oversight and legislative action by Zinke, the Department of Veterans Affairs delayed implementation of a proposed rule that would have drastically reduced reimbursement rates for air and ground ambulance services.\n\nThe VA\u2019s proposed cuts, based on decades-old market data, would have reduced reimbursement rates by as much as 90 percent, threatening the financial viability of providers and putting rural veterans at risk of losing access to lifesaving transport.\n\nThrough his role on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, leading oversight letters, introducing legislation and amendments, and pressing VA leadership directly, Zinke helped secure a delay of the rule\u2019s implementation until 2029. The delay allows for updated market data and mitigates the severe impacts the original rule would have had on rural providers and veterans.\n\nCongresswoman Tokuda represents Hawai\u02bbi\u2019s Second Congressional District, where air travel is a critical lifeline for healthcare and essential services. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Rural Health Caucus, she leads efforts to strengthen health systems for geographically isolated patients. Her legislative work includes the Essential Air Service Reliability Act of 2025, a bill designed to prevent service interruptions by requiring air carriers to maintain contingency plans for remote communities.\n\nThe launch of the Congressional Air Medical Caucus builds on Reps. Zinke and Tokuda\u2019s records to ensure sustained congressional focus on preserving and strengthening access to air medical services for communities across the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-13T06:12:22Z", "2026-05-13T06:13:52Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-statement-zinke-retirement", "Downing Statement on Zinke Retirement", "2026-03-02", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following Congressman Ryan Zinke\u2019s retirement.\n\n\u201cFor over 30 years, Commander Zinke has served his country with integrity, responsibility, and honor,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cIt has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve alongside Ryan while fighting for Montanans in Washington\u2014from protecting our public lands to supporting our farmers and ranchers. Time and again, he has gone to bat for the Treasure State, always putting Montana first.\n\n\u201cAs he and Lola begin their next chapter, Heather and I wish them nothing but the very best. Our state is stronger because of his leadership and service. Montanans will miss having such a steadfast warrior on their team. Thank you for your service, Commander.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-15T06:17:41Z", "2026-05-15T06:18:51Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/after-30-years-public-service-congressman-ryan-zinke-mt-01-announces-he-will", "After 30+ Years of Public Service, Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) Announces He Will Not Seek Reelection in November", "2026-03-02", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Whitefish, MT - Today, after more than 30 years in public service and four terms in Congress, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) announced he will not seek reelection in November. His career includes serving 23 years as a U.S. Navy SEAL officer (1985-2008), four years in the Montana State Senate (2009-2013), two years as Secretary of the Interior under President Donald J. Trump (2017-2019), and four noncontiguous terms in Congress (2015-2017; 2023-2026).\n\nZinke penned a letter to the people of Montana which can be read here.\n\nThe following statement can be attributed to Congressman Zinke:\n\n\u201cIt has been my highest honor to serve America and the Great State of Montana as a U.S. Navy SEAL Commander, State Senator, Congressman, and the 52nd Secretary of the Interior. It has been my privilege to fight on the front lines defending freedom, faith, family, and the values that make America and Montana strong. Battles are not fought alone, and with your support we have unleashed America\u2019s energy potential, removed excessive regulation, lowered taxes, passed the Great American Outdoors Act to repair and preserve our National Parks and Forests, and saved our treasured public lands from being sold to the highest bidder.\n\n\u201cWe have also secured critical funding for Montana bridges, roads, sewer systems, water infrastructure, public access points, conservation projects, and helped thousands of Montanans successfully navigate through the federal bureaucracy to solve real problems that matter to the people that I am honored to represent. Service is a duty that I will always hold sacred, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.\n\n\u201cAs for my service and duty going forward, I have made the decision to leave office at the end of my fourth term and not seek re-election. I do not take this decision lightly and have informed President Trump, the Governor, and senior leadership of this difficult but necessary decision.\n\n\u201cWhile my belief in term limits for elected office is a consideration, I have quietly undergone multiple surgeries since I returned to Congress and unfortunately face several more immediately after leaving office. The injuries sustained from a career in Special Operations are not immediately life threatening, but the repair cannot be deferred any longer and recovery will require considerable time with my wife Lola and my family. My judgment and experience tell me it is better for Montana and America to have full-time representation in Congress than run the risk of uncertain absence and missed votes.\n\n\u201cIt has been a great privilege to serve Montana and our great Nation as the first U.S. Navy SEAL to serve in the State Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, and the first Montanan to serve as a Cabinet Secretary. May God Bless Montana and all those who defend her.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-06T06:05:57Z", "2026-05-06T06:07:49Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-baron-stroop-february-montana-innovator", "Downing Honors Baron Stroop as February \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-02-27", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Baron Stroop as a \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d for the month of February. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category\u2014February is mining.\n\nRead Congressman Downing\u2019s Congressional Record submission below:\n\n\u201cIn honor of America\u2019s 250th birthday, Montana\u2019s Congressional Delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation.\n\n\u201cThis February, I\u2019m proud to highlight Montana\u2019s rich mining history and recognize a man who devoted his life to its preservation: Baron Stroop.\n\n\u201cBaron worked as a drag line operator at Rosebud Mine in Colstrip, Montana. In a job that demanded grit, skill, and long hours, Baron showed up every day with a relentless work ethic and a great pride in producing the energy that powers our communities.\n\n\u201cLast year, we lost Baron far too soon. He represented the backbone of eastern Montana\u2013hardworking, dependable, and humble\u2013and lived his life with the same sense of freedom and strength that defines the Treasure State.\n\n\u201cBaron leaves behind three daughters, including Zoey, who serves on my team as a field representative in our Billings office.\n\n\u201cHis legacy lives on not only through his family but in the example he set. He worked hard, loved deeply, and served his community fiercely.\n\n\u201cIt is my honor to recognize his life and count him among 11 other individuals who represent everything that it means to be a Montanan.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/interior-secretary-doug-burgum-congressman-ryan-zinke-visit-montana-tech-dig", "Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Congressman Ryan Zinke visit Montana Tech, dig into the future of critical minerals in Montana", "2026-02-27", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "BUTTE, MT \u2013 Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke visited Montana Tech University in Butte, MT, to tour the Lance College of Mines and Engineering advanced mineral labs, receive a briefing on the latest engineering technology the school has developed, and host a roundtable discussion with local stakeholders on the Trump Administration\u2019s commitment to bringing mining jobs back to Montana. Photos of the event for media use can be downloaded here.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump and Secretary Burgum have been in lock step with the entire Montana delegation fighting for Montana mining jobs against corrupt foreign influence and manipulation,\u201d said Congressman Zinke. \u201cOn behalf of the Governor, Senators and Montana miners I thank the administration for implementing a 132% tariff on Russian mineral imports which will bring good paying jobs back to Montana. In Montana, we know better than anyone that there\u2019s appropriate places to mine and not, the men and women mining the Stillwater, Silver Bow and other Montana mines do it right. They use the highest technology, have a strong reclamation and safety plan, and they hire brilliant Montana Tech grads. We need to be doing more mining in Montana, not less.\"\n\n\"Montana stands at the forefront of America's mining future, and today's visit underlines the Trump administration, Congressman Zinke and the entire Montana delegation's commitment to restoring American Mineral Dominance and advancing a bold, pro-worker agenda across the West,\" said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. \"After years of burdensome restrictions under the Biden administration, that locked up our energy and mineral supply and drove up costs, President Donald J. Trump has launched a decisive resurgence in American energy and mining that is making life more affordable for Montana families - beginning with unleashing our vast domestic resources. At Interior, we will continue working hand-in-hand with our partners in Western states to restore America\u2019s mining legacy by cutting red tape, streamlining permitting and ensuring critical minerals are produced here at home.\"\n\nMontana Tech Chancellor Johnny MacLean led the group on a tour of the Lance College of Mines and Engineering \u2013 a world renowned program that continually turns out career-bound students. In addition to the latest research and investments at the college, the group also received a briefing on $13 million in federal funding Congressman Zinke is helping Tech secure in the FY27 appropriations process. The funding through the Department of War will facilitate the extraction of critical minerals from the Berkley Pit, minerals which were previously unextractable due to technology limitations.\n\n\"It's an honor to host the U.S. Secretary of the Interior on Montana Tech's campus in Butte, the Mining City. This university has been rising to meet America's emerging needs for 125 years, and we're well positioned for today's watershed moment involving critical materials and energy,\u201d said Montana Tech University Chancellor Johnny MacLean. \u201cWe're grateful for Congressman Zinke for arranging this roundtable, and we\u2019re thrilled to share the solutions with Secretary Burgum that our engineers, scientists, and industry partners are developing.\"\n\n\u201cFor too long, the United States has been dependent on foreign supply of Critical Minerals \u2013 such as copper and zinc \u2013 at the very moment our Technology Economy is innovating new uses for these and many other criticals. That dependence is a drag on American manufacturing and a danger to national security,\u201d said Travis Naugle, Executive Chairman of both Falcon Copper Corp and Silver Bow Mining Corp. \u201cMy goal is to bring new domestic sources of supply into production, and in the case of Falcon Copper, to create the downstream processing capacity that strengthens the mine-to-manufacturing supply chain. Butte's backdrop is the perfect place to have this conversation, and I am honored to be invited by Congressman Zinke and Secretary Burgum to participate in today's roundtable discussion. There are abundant opportunities in the state of Montana to responsibly source many of the Critical Minerals necessary for our national security and beyond. We stand ready to be a part of the solution to this urgent national need.\u201d\n\nThe list of attendees participating in the roundtable include:\n\nSecretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum\n\nCongressman and Former Secretary of the Interior, Ryan Zinke\n\nMontana Tech University Chancellor, Johnny MacLean\n\nMontana Tech University\u2019s Critical Minerals Initiative, Dr. John Matesh\n\nButte-Silver Bow Chief Executive, J.P. Gallagher\n\nMontana Resources President, Jack Standa\n\nMontana Mining Association Executive Director, Matt Vincent\n\nFalcon Copper & Silver Bow Mine Executive Chairman, Travis Naugle\n\nUniversal Technical Services CEO, Marc Ian Snyderman\n\nSabey Corp Founder & CEO, Dave Sabey\n\nAlphaTech and University of Utah Professor, Dr. Matt Memmott\n\nDirector of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality Sonja Nowakowski\n\nUS Antimony President of Antimony, John \u201cGus\u201d Gustavsen\n\nRussian Import Tariffs\n\nThe Stillwater and East Boulder Mines are owned and operated by Sibanye-Stillwater. The mines produce Platinum Group Metals and are the only primary producer of platinum and palladium in the United States. These precious metals are used to reduce emissions in vehicles, to produce high-tech defense equipment like drones and missiles, and various industrial applications, making PGMs some of the most necessary minerals to the U.S. supply chain. The company is also one of the largest global recyclers of platinum, palladium, and rhodium and both the mined and recycled metals are fully refined in the United States.\n\nIn September 2024, Sibanye-Stillwater announces mass layoffs of roughly 700 workers due to Russian dumping of cheap palladium in the United States to undercut U.S. producers. Later that year, U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Congressman Ryan Zinke introduced legislation to ban the import of Russian minerals. In April and again in August 21, 2025 the Montana congressional delegation sent a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately assess a 50% tariff on critical mineral imports from Russia.\n\nLast week, February 2026, President Trump answered Montana\u2019s calls and the U.S. Commerce Department announced a 132% tariff on Russian mineral imports; Sibanye-Stillwater praised decision, declares jobs will come back as soon as next year.\n\nHeather McDowell, Sr Vice President and General Counsel at Sibanye-Stillwater said: \"We at Sibanye-Stillwater are proud to mine and recycle critical minerals in Montana for the USA. We believe the US can and must continue to responsibly produce domestic critical minerals, like our platinum and palladium, under US standards and not be captive to foreign adversaries from unregulated regions, like Russia, who are competing in our global markets. The Trump Administration\u2019s enforcement of US trade law in its preliminary imposition of 132% tariffs on Russian palladium imports will help level this playing field. We are especially grateful to our Montana Congressional Delegation for its unwavering commitment to our people and operations. Keeping Russian palladium out of the US market has contributed to the prices we needed to ensure that we can keep producing critical minerals for generations to come. We are fully motivated to get back to full operations, but it is not going to be this year. We're really trying to focus on the long term because we want to make sure that we get this right.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-releases-statement-following-state-union-address", "Downing Releases Statement Following State of the Union Address", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following President Donald Trump\u2019s State of the Union address.\n\n\u201cPresident Trump has accomplished more in one year than the previous administration could in four,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud to have worked alongside him with my Republican colleagues to deliver historic tax relief for families, workers, and businesses, secure our border, beat back inflation, and make everyday life more affordable for central and eastern Montanans. Here\u2019s to three more years of the Golden Age.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-12T06:07:57Z", "2026-05-12T06:09:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-releases-statement-following-state-union-address", "Zinke Releases Statement Following the State of the Union Address", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke released the following statement following the State of the Union Address:\n\n\u201cDamn the torpedoes, full steam ahead with the Trump America First Agenda. After years of rising prices and stagnant wages, the economy is moving forward. Inflation is down 2 percent, GDP is up 5 percent, retirement accounts are growing, and American families are keeping more of their hard-earned paychecks. Gas prices dropped to $2.25 a gallon in Montana. The border is secure after years of chaos, with law enforcement empowered to do their jobs and keep our communities safe. The Trump doctrine is in full effect, our enemies once again fear us, and our allies understand we all must bear the burden in the fight for freedom.\n\nIn just one year, President Donald Trump and the Republican Congress have restored energy independence, strengthened our military, secured our borders, and put more money back in your pocket. Tonight, POTUS laid out why America is back, and we are just getting started.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-29T06:03:53Z", "2026-04-29T06:05:09Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-reversal-mats-rule", "Downing Applauds Reversal of MATS Rule", "2026-02-20", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) decision to reverse the Biden Administration\u2019s 2024 amendments to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units (EGUs)\u2013a rule commonly known as the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS).\n\n\u201cFor too long, the Biden-era MATS rule has strangled American coal-fired energy,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI applaud President Trump and his administration for taking decisive action to rescind this rule that places unfair constraints on coal plants like Colstrip in Rosebud County, threatening American energy independence and grid reliability. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to swiftly take up my COAL POWER Act to codify this move so that it cannot be revived by a subsequent administration.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nOn May 7, 2024, the Biden EPA finalized the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), specifically targeting coal-fired power plants like Colstrip and mandating compliance using emissions-control technologies that are not yet commercially viable.\n\nThe short compliance timeline and high implementation costs would force Colstrip to shut down, creating reliability concerns for Montana\u2019s grid.\n\nOn April 8, President Trump issued an Executive Proclamation exempting Colstrip and other coal plants from the rule until 2029.\n\nOn June 10, Congressman Downing introduced the COAL POWER Act which rolls back the 2024 MATS rule to the standard under the first Trump Administration and states that the 2024 rule shall have no force or effect.\n\nRead text of the COAL POWER Acthere.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-08T05:46:43Z", "2026-05-08T05:48:09Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-preliminary-affirmative-determination-russian-dumping", "Downing Applauds Preliminary Affirmative Determination in Russian Dumping Investigation", "2026-02-12", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following the U.S. Department of Commerce\u2019s (Commerce) announcement of its preliminary affirmative determination in the antidumping duty (AD) investigation of unwrought palladium from the Russian Federation (Russia) brought by Stillwater Mining Company.\n\n\u201cThis preliminary determination confirms what Montanans have known all along\u2013Russian commodity dumping is to blame for the market turmoil that has left 700 families reeling from layoffs at Stillwater Mine,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI was proud to advocate for tariffs on Russian critical mineral imports and urge the Department of Commerce to use the tools at its disposal to combat this manipulation accordingly. In the meantime, I will continue fighting for relief for the people of Stillwater County by working to pass my Stop Russian Market Manipulation Act.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nOn August 21, 2025, Congressman Downing joined the entire Montana congressional delegation in a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately assess a 50% tariff on critical mineral imports from Russia.\n\nOn February 27, 2025, Congressman Downing introduced the Stop Russian Market Manipulation Act which would ban critical mineral imports from Russia and provide much needed relief for families affected by layoffs at Stillwater Mine.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-testifies-support-bill-strengthen-irrigation-protect-montana", "Downing Testifies in Support of Bill to Strengthen Irrigation, Protect Montana Endangered Species", "2026-02-04", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) delivered testimony before the House Committee on Natural Resources in support of his bill, H.R. 6568, the Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act. The bill reaffirms that the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) retains exclusive ownership, operational control, and financial responsibility for the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel built to support the recovery of the endangered pallid sturgeon.\n\nRead bill text of H.R. 6568 here.\n\nImage\n\nWatch Congressman Downing\u2019s remarks in support of H.R. 6568 here or by clicking on the image above.\n\nBackground\n\nAuthorized in 2007 and built by Bureau of Reclamation, the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel mitigates harm to the endangered pallid sturgeon and lies outside the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project.\n\nIn the winter, large pieces of ice crash into these bypasses causing extensive damage.\n\nWhile LYIP repays irrigation infrastructure costs, the bypass's repair needs stem from federal obligations, and LYIP believes they should not\u2014and cannot afford to\u2014reimburse BOR for repair and maintenance costs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-29T06:03:53Z", "2026-04-29T06:05:09Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinkes-requests-over-27-million-western-montana-roads-bridges-and-water", "Zinke\u2019s Requests for Over $27 Million in Western Montana Roads, Bridges, and Water Infrastructure Projects Signed into Law", "2026-02-03", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Bringing home the bacon!\n\nWashington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that President Trump has signed the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriation Bill into law. The legislation includes more than $27 million in funding for bridges, roads, and water infrastructure projects that will go directly to six Western Montana counties. As a member of the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a central role in shaping the final bill to ensure rural Montana infrastructure needs were prioritized.\n\nWith the enactment of H.R. 7148, which includes funding for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Financial Services and General Government, National Security, the Department of State, and Related Programs, 11 of the 12 Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills have now been signed into law and the partial government shutdown has ended.\n\n\"For years, rural Montana has sent its tax dollars to Washington and watched our critical infrastructure projects get pushed aside while places like Baltimore, Seattle, and Chicago got funding,\" said Zinke. \"This funding corrects that. It puts money back into communities that depend on one bridge, one road, or one water treatment plant to function. These projects came directly from local leaders and county commissioners who live with the consequences of federal neglect. That local input matters more than guidance written by bureaucrats who have never set foot in Western Montana.\u201d\n\nZinke's Community Project Funding Requests:\n\n$10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant\n\n$10,000,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement, Phase I\n\n$2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant\n\n$454,000 for Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion\n\n$1,150,000 for Repaving Marten Creek Road\n\n$1,000,000 for the Flathead County North Fork Road Guardrails\n\n$1,000,000 for the Groff Lane Bridge Replacement\n\n$1,000,000 for Old Corvallis Road Repair\n\nAdditional Montana Wins:\n\nRecommends the Department of Transportation prioritize low-population rural airports and report on counties eligible for the Essential Air Service program.\n\nFocuses bridge replacement and rehabilitation resources on counties with fewer than 20,000 residents.\n\nRequires FAA reporting on addressing staffing shortages at federal contract air traffic control towers.\n\nRecommends expanding eligibility for rural highway infrastructure grants in counties with fewer than 50,000 residents.\n\nAdvances modernization planning for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy campus.\n\nEnsures transparency and stakeholder engagement for UAS Beyond Visual Line of Sight rulemaking.\n\nBlocks a federal commercial motor vehicle speed limiter mandate.\n\nProhibits the use of funding to require driver-facing cameras in federal apprenticeship programs.\n\nProvides funding for Project-Based Rental Assistance.\n\nCreates a Housing Choice Voucher Pilot Program focused on a localized approach in the Rocky Mountain West, targeting markets with low rental availability.\n\nIncludes report language allowing positive rent payment data to be used to build and improve credit history in affordable housing programs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z", "2026-04-16T05:50:08Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-montana-rodeo-legend-flint-rasmussen-montana-innovator", "Downing Honors Montana Rodeo Legend Flint Rasmussen as \u201cMontana Innovator\u201d", "2026-01-30", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized rodeo legend Flint Rasmussen as a \u201cMontana Innovator.\u201d This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America\u2019s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category\u2014January is health, wellness, and sports.\n\nRead Congressman Downing\u2019s Congressional Record submission hereor below:\n\n\u201cMr. Speaker, in honor of America's 250th birthday, Members of Congress from the Treasure State are highlighting exceptional Montanans each month who embody the spirit of our great state and Nation.\n\nLast year, rodeo was officially recognized as Montana's state sport. It's only fitting that the first Montanan I honor is Havre native Flint Rasmussen.\n\nFor decades, Flint brought laughter, heart, and unforgettable energy to rodeo arenas across Montana and the country. His natural talent, quick wit, and unmistakable flair captivated audiences wherever he performed.\n\nMaking his PBR World Finals debut in 1997, Flint became the dedicated, exclusive in-arena entertainer for PBR's premier tour in 2006. For more than two decades, fans packed arenas not only to watch world-class bull riding, but to be entertained by Flint's iconic performances that became a hallmark of PBR events.\n\nIn recognition of his remarkable career, Flint was inducted into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2024 and the Bull Riding Hall of Fame last year. Flint Rasmussen didn't just shape Montana's rodeo culture, he helped define rodeo entertainment across America.\n\nI thank Flint for his innumerable contributions to the fabric of American culture through his life's work. He has made our state and our country proud.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-21T05:46:59Z", "2026-04-21T05:48:34Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-honors-montana-world-war-ii-home-front-pioneer-donna-roberts", "Zinke Honors Montana World War II Home Front Pioneer Donna Roberts in Congressional Record", "2026-01-30", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Each month of 2026, the 250th year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke will join the rest of the Montana delegation and the Montana 250th Commission in honoring individuals who have made their mark as extraordinary Montanans. This January, Congressman Zinke is recognizing Donna Stageman Roberts of Swan Lake, Montana, in the Congressional Record for her role on the World War II home front and her lifelong contributions to Montana\u2019s communities.\n\nDonna Roberts recently celebrated her 100th birthday and is the only Montanan to have played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, a professional league formed during World War II to sustain America\u2019s pastime while Major League Baseball players served overseas. Her story reflects the resilience, adaptability, and service that defined the American home front during a time of global conflict.\n\nRead Congressman Zinke\u2019s Congressional Record submission below:\n\nMr. Speaker, as our Nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, I rise to recognize a remarkable Montanan whose life story reflects both the resilience of this Nation during World War II and the enduring spirit of service that defines the Treasure State.\n\nToday I honor Donna Stageman Roberts, born January 1, 1926, in Randolph, Nebraska, and now a resident of Swan Lake, Montana. On New Year\u2019s Day, Donna celebrated her 100th birthday, a milestone befitting a life that spans a century of change and achievement.\n\nDonna\u2019s life is interwoven with one of the most extraordinary chapters in American sports history and our home front effort during World War II. In 1946, at the age of 20 and living in Billings, she read about tryouts for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, a professional league created in 1943 to sustain America\u2019s pastime while many major league players served overseas during the war.\n\nAfter submitting her application and being selected from hundreds of hopefuls, Donna earned a contract with the Peoria Redwings, joining their inaugural 1946 season as a shortstop and outfielder. During that era, these teams kept baseball alive in communities across the Midwest, giving Americans a source of normalcy and pride as so many families worried about loved ones on distant battlefields. While her professional career with Peoria was brief, the experience marked a rare and historic contribution to both the sport and the wartime cultural landscape of the United States.\n\nUpon returning to Montana, Donna invested her earnings in her education at Eastern Montana College, later dedicating 35 years as an elementary school teacher in Helena, shaping generations of young Montanans. She and her late husband raised two children, and she remained an active and cherished member of her community for decades.\n\nDonna\u2019s story connects Montana to a pivotal moment in American history, when the home front adapted to global conflict and extraordinary opportunities emerged from national necessity. Her journey from the sandlots of Billings to the professional diamonds of the Midwest and back again exemplifies Montana\u2019s contribution to the broader American story.\n\nOn this 250th anniversary of our Nation, we honor Donna Roberts for her athletic achievement and longevity and for embodying the character of service and community that has sustained this country through war and peace.\n\nI congratulate Donna Roberts on her 100th birthday and thank her for a life of remarkable dedication and enduring impact on Montana and the Nation.", 1, "2026-04-07T05:38:05Z", "2026-04-07T05:39:14Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-legislation-bolster-water-infrastructure-fort-peck", "Downing Introduces Legislation to Bolster Water Infrastructure on the Fort Peck Reservation", "2026-01-27", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced a bill to reauthorize the Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System Act of 2000.\n\n\u201cWater infrastructure is vital to ensuring Montana\u2019s tribal communities have the resources they need to thrive,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI\u2019m proud to lead this bill in the House and work alongside Senators Daines and Sheehy to deliver for Indian Country.\u201d\n\nRead text of the bill here.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System Act of 2000 was first enacted to allow for joint management of two interconnected water systems\u2014the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System.\n\nCongressman Downing\u2019s bill would permit the Bureau of Reclamation to continue constructing and maintaining essential water infrastructure on the Fort Peck Reservation from December 2026 to December 2028.\n\nSenators Daines and Sheehy introduced companion legislation earlier this month.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinkes-requests-over-8-million-western-montana-water-infrastructure-and-law", "Zinke\u2019s Requests for Over $8 Million in Western Montana Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement Projects Signed into Law", "2026-01-23", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that President Trump has signed into law H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. This legislation includes more than $8 million in federal funding for five key Community Funding Projects across Montana, supporting essential water infrastructure improvements and bolstering law enforcement resources in Western Montana counties.\n\n\u201cThese projects come directly from county commissioners and sheriffs who are on the front lines of their communities every day,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThey know what needs to be done to improve public safety and infrastructure, and these projects will make a real difference for the communities they serve. This is exactly the kind of funding federal dollars were designed for, investments that have an immediate, positive impact where people live and work.\u201d\n\nThe funding will go directly to law enforcement agencies in Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, Sanders, and Gallatin Counties, and water infrastructure projects in Missoula, Mineral, and Granite Counties.\n\nThis package also includes additional priorities Congressman Zinke secured as a senior member of both the Appropriations Committee and the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee. These investments and policies address Montana\u2019s critical needs, including public safety, water infrastructure, tribal education, the Murder and Missing Indigenous Women program, and protecting Second Amendment rights.\n\nZinke\u2019s requested Western Montana Community Funding Projects signed into law:\n\n$1.75 million for the Philipsburg Water Transmission Line Upgrade\n\n$1.75 million for Missoula County Water Well Upgrades\n\n$1 million for the Alberton Water Storage Project\n\n$2.89 million for the Five-County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project supporting sheriffs in Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties for bulk vehicle and equipment purchases\n\n$907,000 for the Gallatin County Sheriff\u2019s Office to expand Rapid DNA testing and add patrol SUVs\n\nOther Montana priorities included in the bill:\n\nZinke\u2019s request for $2.2 million to reinstate the Native American Ironworker Training Program, opening high-paying skilled trades to Tribal members\n\nZinke\u2019s request for $2 million for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women programs\n\n$63 million increase for the DEA to combat fentanyl and cartels\n\nSupport for the Milk River Project, vital for irrigation and water reliability in north-central Montana\n\nBill language preserving Second Amendment protections by prohibiting funding for firearm import/export restrictions\n\nFull funding of the PILT program supporting county services in federal land areas\n\nView pictures of the signing here.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\nRead more about H.R. 6938 here.\n\nRead more about Congressman Zinke\u2019s Community Project Funding requests here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-passage-funding-montana-infrastructure-sentinel-program", "Downing Applauds Passage of Funding for Montana Infrastructure, Sentinel Program", "2026-01-22", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following House passage of H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. H.R. 7148 includes the last of 12 appropriations bills passed by the U.S. House of Representatives for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), marking a return to regular order appropriations.\n\nThe legislation includes $9,288,000 in funding for local priorities across Yellowstone, Rosebud, Teton, and Cascade counties which can be referenced in Division D of the bill\u2019s Joint Explanatory Statement. Funded projects include improving a storm runoff pond at Billings Logan International Airport, roadway extension in Cascade County, road paving in Rosebud County, and a project to automate canal gates in the Greenfields Irrigation District.\n\nThe bill also includes over $2.6 billion to fund the Sentinel Program which can be referenced in Division A of the bill\u2019s Joint Explanatory Statement. This funding level matches President Trump\u2019s FY26 budget request for discretionary appropriations for the program by supplementing $2.5 billion appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act for risk reduction activities for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program.\n\nPassage of H.R. 7148 is a critical step in securing funding for the projects. Following approval by the full House of Representatives, the legislation must be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the President. This is the first time in years that a Congressman from Montana\u2019s Eastern District has advocated for community project funding.\n\n\"The days of Congress kicking the can down the road are over,\u201d said Congressman Troy Downing. \u201cToday, House Republicans passed the last of 12 appropriations bills, delivering on our promise to return to regular order. This legislation also reflected my advocacy for infrastructure development in Central and Eastern Montana and full funding for the Sentinel Program at Malmstrom Air Force Base. I was proud to support these initiatives and urge the Senate to take up this bill as soon as possible and send it to the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City of Billings thanks Congressman Downing for his efforts to secure funding for the Billings Logan International Airport Stormwater Pond E project in legislation before the House of Representatives,\u201d said Billings Mayor Mike Nelson. \u201cThis project is vital to the long-term success of the airport by facilitating future infrastructure development for this important transportation hub and economic engine for the City of Billings, the region served, and the State of Montana.\u201d\n\n\u201cRosebud County would like to express our gratitude to Congressman Downing for his efforts in helping gain funding for our Castle Rock Road project,\u201d said Rosebud County Commissioner Ed Joiner. \u201cThe three million dollars will help us pave and improve one of our main county roads. Castle Rock road is not only used by our residents, but is a highly used road by Westmoreland Coal Company and their employees. The road is also used for emergency transports from our County Airport out of Colstrip which benefits residents of Rosebud County, and the Northern Cheyenne Indian reservation. We have started the project but ran short of funding and had plans to improve the road at a later date, but this will help us get the much-needed project going earlier. Again, we appreciate the help and attention to help us out and a big Thank You from Rosebud County!\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Greenfields Irrigation District has been providing public benefits for well over 100 years,\u201d said Greenfields Irrigation District Manager Erling Juel. \u201cTremendous appreciation to Congressman Downing and his Team for recognizing the critical importance of replacing the aging Mary Taylor Bifurcation infrastructure thus avoiding a catastrophic, mid-season failure. The planned upgrades will also incorporate hydropower generation. Besides producing clean, reliable, and predictable renewable energy for Montanans, the resulting revenue stream will facilitate and expedite the District\u2019s aging irrigation infrastructure replacement plan as well as modernizing District operations. These improvements will ensure the sustainability and viability of the District for the next 100 years.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Road extension project within the Agritech Park is a critical need for the continued development of good paying jobs for Cascade County residents,\u201d said Cascade County Commissioner Joe Briggs. \u201cCreation and expansion of the Agritech Park has been a slow process due to local funding constraints, but the work of Congressman Downing to secure this funding will launch us forward and allow the completion of necessary shovel ready lots for new and expanding industry here in Cascade County. The path ahead looks bright due to his efforts. Thank you, Congressman Downing.\u201d\n\nSee below for a complete list of community project funding initiatives included in H.R. 7148:\n\nBillings Logan International Airport Stormwater Improvements Project\n\nRecipient: City of Billings\n\nAmount: $1,500,000\n\nThis project will improve and expand stormwater Pond E at Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) to increase capacity to address additional runoff from newly developed commercial aeronautical areas on the airport.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nCastle Rock Road Paving Completion\n\nRecipient: Rosebud County\n\nAmount: $3,000,000\n\nThis project will support completing the paving of an additional four and a half miles of Castle Rock Road in Rosebud County. The county has completed 3 miles of paving for the road. This funding would allow Rosebud County to pave the remaining distance from the conveyor belt under the road to the Area C Rosebud Coal Mine Shop.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nMary Taylor Main Canal Bifurcation and Hydropower Project\n\nRecipient: Greenfields Irrigation District\n\nAmount: $4,000,000\n\nThis request will address aging infrastructure at the Mary Taylor Junction by automating canal gates and installing a hydroelectric unit with a generating capacity of approximately 1.55 megawatts.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nRoadway Extension and Future Major Expansion of Great Falls AgriTech Park\n\nRecipient: Cascade County\n\nAmount: $788,000\n\nThis project will support expanding and paving 18th Avenue North within the active Great Falls AgriTech Park, a 422-acre industrial park with 8 existing businesses, full utility infrastructure, and direct rail access. It will extend the existing road to open 611 additional acres for major future expansion.\n\nCertification Letter\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-secures-over-27-million-western-montana-roads-bridges-and-infrastructure", "Zinke Secures Over $27 Million for Western Montana Roads, Bridges, and Infrastructure Projects in the Final FY26 Appropriations Package", "2026-01-22", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that he secured over $27 million in infrastructure funding for Montana in H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. The package includes the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education appropriations bills. As a member of House Appropriations Committee and of the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a large part in crafting this package.\n\nWith House passage of this legislation package as well as of H.R. 7147 Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2026 today, all 12 FY26 appropriations bills have now passed the House of Representatives. Five bills have passed the Senate, while three have already been signed into law, marking significant progress toward completing the federal funding process through regular order. This would be only the fourth time Congress has passed all 12 appropriations bills through regular order since the current budget rules took effect in 1977, and the first time since 1997.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve worked with county commissioners and local leaders for years on these projects, and now we\u2019re finally securing the support they deserve,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThis bill funds vital projects that Washington often overlooks but are essential to the people who live there. Seely Lake\u2019s wastewater treatment plant, replacement of the Noxon Bridge, road improvements in Ravalli County, and guardrail installations along the North Fork are prime examples of what Congress should be spending money on. These are good, community driven, shovel ready projects, that come from the ground up, not from bureaucrats who\u2019ve never been to the west. I urge the Senate to act quickly and pass this bill, fully funding the government for fiscal year 2026.\u201d\n\nZinke\u2019s Community Project Funding Requests:\n\n$10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant\n\n$10,000,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement, Phase I\n\n$2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant\n\n$454,000 for the Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion\n\n$1,150,000 for the Repaving Marten Creek Road\n\n$1,000,000 for the Flathead County North Fork Road Guardrails\n\n$1,000,000 for the Groff Lane Bridge Replacement\n\n$1,000,000 for the Old Corvallis Road Repair\n\nAdditional Montana Wins:\n\nRecommends the Department of Transportation to prioritize low-population rural airports and report on counties eligible for the Essential Air Service program.\n\nFocuses bridge replacement and rehabilitation resources on counties with fewer than 20,000 residents.\n\nRequires FAA reporting on addressing staffing shortages at federal contract air traffic control towers.\n\nRecommends expanding eligibility for rural highway infrastructure grants in counties with fewer than 50,000 people.\n\nAdvances modernization planning for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy campus.\n\nEnsures transparency and stakeholder engagement for UAS Beyond Visual Line of Sight rulemaking.\n\nBlocks a federal commercial motor vehicle speed limiter mandate.\n\nProhibits the use of funding to require driver-facing cameras in federal apprenticeship programs.\n\nFunding for Project-Based Rental Assistance\n\nCreates Housing Choice Voucher Pilot Program focused on a localized approach in the Rocky Mountain West, targeting markets with low rental availability.\n\nReport language to allow positive rent payment data to be used for building and improving credit history in affordable housing.\n\nHomeland Security:\n\nTopline funding\n\n$64.4 billion total discretionary allocation\n\nHighlights\n\nFEMA (including Disaster Relief Fund): $32 billion\n\nCustoms and Border Protection & ICE: $28.0 billion\n\nU.S. Coast Guard: $13.9 billion\n\nEnds funding for programs that incentivized illegal immigration and refocuses DHS on enforcement.\n\nStrengthens border security, interior enforcement, and counter-drug operations to combat fentanyl and transnational crime.\n\nExpands Coast Guard maritime security and Indo-Pacific presence to protect U.S. waters and trade routes.\n\nFully funds FEMA disaster relief and firefighter grant programs to support state and local response efforts.\n\nDefense:\n\nTopline funding\n\n$839.2 billion total discretionary allocation\n\nHighlights\n\nInvests in next-generation aircraft, missile defense, nuclear deterrence, space capabilities, and munitions production to deter China and emerging threats.\n\nDelivers a 3.8 percent pay raise for all servicemembers and improves quality of life for military families.\n\nCuts more than $1.7 billion through efficiencies and management reforms while driving innovation and competition.\n\nStrengthens counter-drug operations, border security support, and National Guard programs.\n\nLabor, Health and Human Services, Education:\n\nTopline funding\n\n$221 billion total discretionary allocation\n\nHighlights\n\nReduces bureaucracy and safeguards taxpayer dollars through targeted savings.\n\nStrengthens rural health care, primary care access, and efforts to combat fentanyl and illicit drugs.\n\nProtects the right to life by prohibiting taxpayer funding for abortion on demand.\n\nEnhances Social Security customer service and program integrity.\n\nCuts funding for regulatory agencies that burden American job creators, including the NLRB and OSHA.\n\nTransportation, Housing and Urban Development:\n\nTopline funding\n\n$102.9 billion total discretionary allocation\n\nHighlights\n\nModernizes air traffic control, hires 2,500 air traffic controllers, and improves aviation safety.\n\nRedirects funding to core transportation priorities that support jobs and economic growth.\n\nCuts $5.7 billion in waste while preserving safety and essential services.\n\nFully funds rental assistance for vulnerable Americans, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.\n\nThe bipartisan package now heads to the Senate for a vote.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-ai-wise-act-passes-house", "Downing\u2019s AI-WISE Act Passes House", "2026-01-20", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s (MT-02) H.R. 5784, the AI-WISE Act, passed out of the House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bill, sponsored by Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), now awaits consideration in the Senate, taking a critical step toward becoming law.\n\n\u201cThe small businesses in rural communities that I represent often lack the resources and information needed to facilitate technology adoption,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cMy AI-WISE Act will help Main Street Montana stay competitive and thrive in the AI era. I\u2019m proud to be leading this legislation with Congresswoman Scholten and urge the Senate to take it up immediately.\u201d\n\nRead bill text of H.R. 5784 here.\n\nImage\n\nClick here or on the image above to watch Congressman Downing\u2019s remarks in support of H.R. 5784.\n\nH.R. 5784 received the following statements of support from OpenAI and Intuit:\n\nOpenAI\n\n\u201cOpenAI also strongly supports H.R. 5784, the Artificial Intelligence Wisdom for Innovative Small Enterprises (AI WISE) Act. This bill would require the Small Business Administration to develop and maintain clear educational resources and online learning modules that explain how AI tools work, their limitations and risks, how to identify AI-generated outputs, and how to stay current as this technology rapidly evolves. We are encouraged that the bill directs SBA to consult with NIST and an expert advisory working group, to engage resource partners such as SBDCs and Women\u2019s Business Centers, and to ensure that materials are actionable, accessible, and model neutral rather than favoring any one AI provider. We thank Representatives Troy Downing and Hillary Scholten for recognizing that improving AI literacy is essential if small businesses are to harness AI\u2019s benefits while avoiding its pitfalls.\u201d\n\nIntuit\n\n\u201cWe write today to express our support of H.R. 5784, the Artificial Intelligence Wisdom for Innovative Small Enterprises Act or the \u2018AI-WISE Act\u2019.\n\n\u201cIntuit's mission is to power prosperity around the world and we believe that artificial intelligence (AI) represents the most transformative technology of our generation, offering unparalleled opportunities for small businesses to save time, increase productivity, and achieve financial success.\n\n\u201cHowever, the effective adoption of AI, especially complex \u2018agentic AI\u2019 now being integrated into financial and marketing solutions requires a foundational level of education and trust. The AI-WISE Act addresses this critical need by directing the Small Business Administration (SBA) to establish high-quality, actionable, and neutral educational resources for small business concerns.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 1 in 4 businesses do not know whether they will or will not use AI in production during the next six months.\n\nThe AI-WISE Act requires the Small Business Administration to develop AI literacy resources on its existing e-learning platform.\n\nThis bill would help small business owners considering adopting AI tools to critically evaluate and assess their capabilities and help remedy any related drawbacks.\n\nAdditional cosponsors of the legislation include Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02).\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-mccarran-ferguson-restoration-act", "Downing Introduces McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act", "2026-01-16", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act. This legislation will eliminate the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), create a United States Insurance Representative appointed by the Treasury Secretary, and expand state insurance representation on the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) by elevating the current nonvoting state insurance commissioner to a voting member.\n\nIn early 2025, Congressman Downing introduced the Federal Insurance Office Elimination Act, which eliminated the office and all of its features in their entirety. The McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act reflects substantial industry feedback to preserve key functions of the office like the facilitation of U.S. representation on the international stage and inclusion in FSOC.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act include Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) and Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05). Supporting organizations include the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big \u201cI\u201d), the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).\n\nRead exclusive reporting on the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act in CQ News here.\n\n\u201cThe Federal Insurance Office exists in spite of the fact that the regulation of insurance has and always will belong to the states,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cFIO is a duplicative federal bureaucracy that hinders the efforts of state regulators better equipped to address the insurance needs of their communities. The McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act affirms this by eliminating the Federal Insurance Office while preserving some of its key features, delivering greater clarity for U.S. insurance regulation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe consensus is clear: regulatory authority over insurance should be left to the states,\u201d said Jimi Grande, NAMIC SVP of Federal & Political Affairs. \"Rather than informing federal policymakers, the Federal Insurance Office has for years duplicated the work of state regulators, routinely exceeding statutory guidance and inflicting burdensome costs that are ultimately paid by consumers. As a former state insurance commissioner, Congressman Downing knows this all too well, and NAMIC appreciates his leadership in stopping this wasteful federal overreach.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thankful to Rep. Downing for his work to protect the integrity of McCarran-Ferguson and the state-based regulatory system. Over the years, the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) has shown to have questionable value for insurance markets as well as consumers,\u201dsaid Big \u201cI\u201d SVP of Federal Government Affairs Nathan Riedel. \u201cAs the largest association representing independent insurance agents and brokers, the Big \u2018I\u2019 supports eliminating the FIO, and affirming the valuable work that state regulators do.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act safeguards the proven state-based system of insurance regulation by repealing the Federal Insurance Office\u2014an unnecessary federal bureaucracy created under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act,\u201d said PIA CEO Mike Skiados. \u201cFor more than a century, state regulators have effectively protected both consumers and the insurance marketplace, and they remain best positioned to do so moving forward. PIA appreciates Rep. Troy Downing for his leadership and commitment to preserving the state insurance regulatory system.\u201d\n\n\"The McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act is a critical measure to preserve the strength of our state-based system of insurance regulation\u2013a framework that has protected consumers and ensured market stability for decades,\u201d said Sam Whitfield, APCIA\u2019s senior vice president of federal government relations and political engagement. \u201cThe bill also equips the Treasury Department with tools to advocate for this proven system internationally, while appropriately eliminating unnecessary powers of the Federal Insurance Office. APCIA thanks Rep. Downing for his leadership and commitment to working collaboratively with stakeholders to advance this important legislation.\"\n\n\u201cState insurance regulators strongly support Rep. Troy Downing\u2019s McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act because it restores the proper balance between the states and the federal government,\u201d said NAIC President and Virginia Insurance Commissioner Scott A. White. \u201cInsurance regulation has always been, and should always remain, a state responsibility. This legislation eliminates a federal office that conflicted with that framework, while preserving a focused, non-regulatory role for Treasury to engage internationally and defend the U.S. system of state-based supervision. It reinforces regulatory clarity and respects the model that has successfully protected policyholders for more than a century and a half.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nIn 1945, Congress passed the McCarran-Ferguson Act, solidifying states\u2019 regulatory authority over the insurance industry.\n\nThe 2010 Dodd\u2013Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act created the Federal Insurance Office under Treasury, charging FIO with \u201cthe authority to monitor all aspects of the insurance sector,\u201d clearly violating McCarran-Ferguson.\n\nDowning introduced the Federal Insurance Office Elimination Act in early 2025, which eliminated FIO broadly.\n\nThe McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act would eliminate the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), create a United States Insurance Representative appointed by the Treasury, and expand state insurance representation on FSOC by elevating the current nonvoting state insurance commissioner to a voting member.\n\nThe roles of the United States Insurance Representative would include representing the federal government on the international stage, replacing the FIO Director as a nonvoting member of FSOC, and assisting in administering the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA).\n\nNotably, the bill narrows the scope of the Insurance Representative to prudential aspects of insurance only, requires Treasury to hire and retain individuals with expertise in matters related to insurance, and includes no authorization of appropriations.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-historic-233-million-investment-rural-health-care-headed-montana", "ICYMI: Historic $233 Million Investment in Rural Health Care Headed to Montana", "2026-01-12", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - In December, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced that Montana will receive more than $233 million in Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation Program. This funding is part of the landmark \u201cOne Big Beautiful Bill,\u201d which Congressman Zinke supported and was signed into law in July. It represents the largest federal investment in rural health care in U.S. history. Montana secured the fourth-largest allocation of any state.\n\n\u201cThis historic funding is a game changer for Montana\u2019s rural communities,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cAccess to quality health care close to home is essential and has historically been hard to come by for our families and workers in small towns. As anyone living in the rural West knows, D.C.\u2019s one-size-fits-all solutions don\u2019t work in our communities. This investment empowers Montana\u2019s health care workers and officials to keep our communities healthy in a way that makes sense for Montana and our way of life.\u201d\n\nMontana will use this funding to boost the rural healthcare workforce, secure financial stability for providers, and focus on prevention and community health. It also aims to expand technology through improved interoperability and electronic medical record upgrades. Key initiatives include creating a Rural Center of Excellence, launching new care and payment models, implementing SNAP waivers, forming an EMS Compact, and introducing Medicaid reforms like telehealth and remote patient monitoring.\n\nRead Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services press release here.\n\nRead the Montana program funding summary here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-passage-funding-montana-law-enforcement-infrastructure", "Downing Applauds Passage of Funding for Montana Law Enforcement, Infrastructure", "2026-01-08", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following House passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. The legislation includes nearly $3,629,000 in total funding for local priorities across Yellowstone, Lewis and Clark, Cascade, and Toole Counties which can be referenced in Division A and Division C of the bill\u2019s Joint Explanatory Statement. Funded projects include the replacement of a critical piece of infrastructure in the Billings Bench Water Association\u2019s canal system, upgraded crime scene and communications equipment for law enforcement, and detention center upgrades.\n\nPassage of H.R. 6938 is a critical step in securing funding for the projects. Following approval by the full House of Representatives, the legislation must be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the President. Each member is limited in the number of projects they can submit, and the application process is extremely competitive. This is the first time in years that a Congressman from Montana\u2019s Eastern District has advocated for community project funding.\n\n\u201cMontanans, not Washington bureaucrats, know best when it comes to addressing the needs of our communities,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThese funding requests were submitted in close consultation with local stakeholders and promise to greatly expand law enforcement capabilities and critical infrastructure. If there\u2019s money to be spent in Montana\u2019s Second District, I\u2019ll fight for every cent to deliver for my constituents.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City of Billings sincerely thanks Congressman Downing for his leadership in securing funding for the Canyon Creek Flume project in legislation currently under consideration by the House of Representatives,\u201dsaid Billings Mayor Mike Nelson. \u201cThis project is vital to the long-term resilience of Billings\u2019 water system, and the federal investment he championed will help protect and strengthen our infrastructure for decades to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cGreat Falls is safer when law enforcement has the right tools,\u201d said Great Falls PD Captain Brian Black. \u201cThanks to appropriations funding through the U.S. Department of Justice, we now have this advanced equipment to help investigators bring clarity to complex cases, protect victims, and keep our community safe and strong.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery major crime scene requires meticulous documentation,\u201d said Great Falls PD Detective Sergeant Joe Dusatko. \u201cGreat Falls is fortunate to have a team of talented and capable investigators, and this equipment aids in their efforts to ensure an objective, precise, and complete record of a crime. This protects case integrity and provides the County Attorney\u2019s Office with the most accurate information, so they may present the strongest possible case.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis equipment is a force multiplier and greatly helps our investigations,\u201d said Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter. \u201cIt creates accurate depictions of complex crimes scenes that provide the necessary evidence in court. I would like to thank Congressman Downing for advocating for our community.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you Congressman Downing and the US Congress for recognizing the criticality of public safety communication,\u201d said Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton. \u201cMontana\u2019s beautifully created topography can be an unforgiving barrier for vital communications. This appropriation will aid our first responders in calling for back up and allow search and rescue and paramedics to communicate in this rugged terrain. For law enforcement, that can be longer than a hour and a half. We are thankful you are willing to help save lives. Please give this critical funding a do pass.\"\n\n\u201cWhile national trends show some violent crimes declining in major cities, our county has experienced significant strain on our existing detention infrastructure,\u201d said Toole County Commissioner Terry Tomsheck. \u201cOur current facility is operating well above the recommended 80-85% capacity threshold for safe and effective facility management. The proposed new detention center will incorporate essential modern features including enhanced supervision capabilities, advanced security monitoring systems, improved safety measures, and specialized housing units. The safety of our community and the proper treatment of those in custody depend on this critical infrastructure investment.\"\n\n\u201cYellowstone County has long been in need of additional detention capacity to hold the criminals that threaten our communities accountable,\u201d said Yellowstone County Commissioner Mike Waters. \u201cIn certain circumstances, law enforcement lacks the resources to detain the perpetrators of lesser offenses like misdemeanors. The Yellowstone County Short Term Detention Facility will help to address this problem, and the funding that Congressman Downing advocated for will provide the facility with the tools to ensure justice can be served.\u201d\n\nSee below for a complete list of community project funding initiatives included in H.R. 6938:\n\nCanyon Creek Flume Replacement Project\n\nRecipient: City of Billings\n\nAmount: $1,000,000\n\nThis project will replace the Canyon Creek flume, which is a critical piece of infrastructure in the Billings Bench Water Association\u2019s canal system. Its age and current condition make it susceptible to failure.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nCrime Scene Laser Scanner and Crime Scene Processing Equipment\n\nRecipient: City of Great Falls / Great Falls Police Department\n\nAmount: $128,686\n\nThis project will facilitate the purchase of Crime Scene Laser Scanner and Crime Scene Processing Equipment for the Great Falls Police Department. This laser scanner technology will allow detectives to more efficiently and accurately document crime scenes.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nLewis and Clark County Sheriff\u2019s Office Communications Equipment\n\nRecipient: Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office\n\nAmount: $500,000\n\nThis project will fund the purchase of 14 interoperable satellite systems for the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff\u2019s Office. It will support county law enforcement's efforts to maintain public safety, particularly in conducting operations in remote areas like missing persons searches.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nToole County Public Safety Detention Facility\n\nRecipient: Toole County\n\nAmount: $1,500,000\n\nThis project will support the renovation of Toole County\u2019s detention facility. It will expand its inmate capacity and incorporate essential modern features like enhanced supervision capabilities, advanced security monitoring systems, and improved staff and inmate safety measures.\n\nCertification Letter\n\nYellowstone County Short-term Detention Facility\n\nRecipient: Yellowstone County\n\nAmount: $500,000\n\nThis project will support the construction of a short-term detention facility for Yellowstone County by providing resources to pay for and install security control doors and corresponding access control and communications systems.\n\nCertification Letter\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-zinke-urge-us-air-force-address-delayed-aircraft", "Downing, Daines, Sheehy, Zinke Urge U.S. Air Force to Address Delayed Aircraft Delivery to Montana Air National Guard", "2026-01-08", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) sent a letter to U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink expressing concern about continued delivery delays in C-130J aircraft to the Montana Air National Guard.\n\n\u201cWe write to you today to express our concern regarding continued delays in C-130J aircraft deliveries to the Montana Air National Guard and to emphasize the importance of timely receipt. The Montana Air National Guard 120th Airlift Wing currently operates a fleet of 8 C-130Hs, all of which are scheduled to be replaced with the upgraded and improved C-130J model. That critical upgrade will allow the Wing to better respond to national defense operations, natural disasters, conduct more efficient airlift operations, and carry out their wildfire and rescue missions\u2026\n\n\u2026 We request that you provide answers to the following questions:\n\nWhat, specifically, has caused these delivery delays?\n\nWhat remedies can be pursued to bring this program back on schedule?\n\n\u2026Thank you for your support and we look forward to working with you to ensure Montana\u2019s Air National Guard receives the aircraft they have been promised on a reasonable timeline,\u201d they wrote in the letter.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-secures-over-8-million-water-infrastructure-and-law-enforcement-projects", "Zinke Secures Over $8 Million for Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement Projects Across 8 Western Montana Counties in FY2026 Appropriations Package", "2026-01-08", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the House passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026., a comprehensive funding package that delivers real results for Montana. The package strengthens public safety, advances energy and water infrastructure, supports rural and Tribal communities, and restores commonsense management of public lands.\n\nAs a senior member of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, Zinke successfully championed Montana priorities across all three bills, including funding for rural law enforcement, clean water projects, Tribal public safety, forest management, and responsible energy development.\n\n\"These bills reflect Montana values: strong communities, safe streets, reliable infrastructure, and access to our public lands,\" said Zinke. \"I fought to ensure Montana wasn't an afterthought. From sheriff's departments and clean water systems to forest management and Tribal public safety, these investments put resources directly into our communities.\"\n\nInterior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act\n\nTopline:\n\n$38.6 billion in total discretionary funding, a slight decrease from FY25 with cost savings from renewable energy projects and EPA reductions\n\nProtects public land access by preventing delays on grazing and new ammunition or fishing tackle regulations\n\n$3.27 billion for the National Park Service\n\n$33.8 million increase for Indian Health Programs\n\n$14.5 million increase for Tribal Public Safety and Justice programs\n\n$7.4 million increase for onshore oil and gas development at BLM\n\n$1.52 billion for Wildland Fire Management, including $370 million for fire suppression cap adjustment\n\nMontana Wins:\n\nZinke\u2019s requested Montana Community Projects\n\n$1.75 million for the Philipsburg Water Transmission Line Upgrade\n\n$1.75 million for Missoula County Water Well Upgrades\n\n$1 million for Alberton Water Storage Project\n\nFull funding of the PILT program supporting county services in federal land areas\n\nZinke\u2019s request for $2.2 million to reinstate the Native American Ironworker Training Program, opening high-paying skilled trades to Tribal members\n\nZinke\u2019s request for $2 million for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women programs\n\nReport language on Delisting 3 Grizzly Bear populations, the Wolverine, and the Canadian Lynx\n\nReport language on prohibiting the introduction of bison on the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge\n\n\u201cAs someone who went through the Native American Ironworker Training Program, I\u2019ve seen firsthand the impact it can have on individuals and tribal communities,\u201d said Tom Tanner, a graduate of the program with 32 years of experience in the ironworking trade. \u201cNow that this program has been officially reinstated, it\u2019s a smart investment in America\u2019s future and will once again support the skilled workforce needed to rebuild roads, bridges, and energy infrastructure. It provides tribal members with training for careers that offer good pay, union benefits, and long-term stability. Its return reflects a real commitment to skilled trades and job creation, and I appreciate Congressman Zinke\u2019s efforts to make this happen.\u201d\n\nCommerce, Justice, Science (CJS) Appropriations Act\n\nTopline:\n\n$78.01 billion total discretionary funding, largely level with targeted increases\n\n$63 million increase for DEA to combat fentanyl and cartels\n\n$30 million for NOAA's Mesonet Weather Forecasting Program\n\n$41 million for Regional Tech & Innovation Hubs\n\nMontana Wins:\n\nZinke\u2019s requested Montana Community Projects\n\n$2.89 million for the Five County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project supporting sheriffs in Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties for bulk vehicle and equipment purchases\n\n$907,000 for Gallatin County Sheriff's Office to expand Rapid DNA testing and add patrol SUVs\n\nMaintained strong funding for COPS grants, supporting local and Tribal law enforcement\n\nPreserved Second Amendment protections by prohibiting funding for firearm import/export restrictions\n\nEnergy and Water Development Appropriations Act\n\nTopline:\n\n$58.04 billion total discretionary funding, moderate increase overall\n\n$20.38 billion for nuclear weapons stockpile modernization\n\n$2.13 billion for U.S. Navy nuclear fleet infrastructure and technology\n\n$2.37 billion for nuclear nonproliferation efforts\n\nProhibits Strategic Petroleum Reserve crude oil sales to China and restricts nuclear facility access to Chinese and Russian citizens\n\nEliminates Biden-era Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations and zero funds for DOE's Office of Energy Justice and Equity\n\nMontana Wins:\n\nSupport for the Milk River Project, vital for irrigation and water reliability in north-central Montana\n\n$13.5 million for Applied Grid Transformation Solutions to modernize transmission infrastructure\n\nRobust funding for advanced nuclear and grid security programs\n\nContinued support for rural water projects and drought resilience through the Bureau of Reclamation\n\nH.R. 6938 now advances to the Senate with strong bipartisan support and reflects a clear commitment to Montana\u2019s communities, workers, Tribes, and way of life.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/dow-moves-punish-senator-featured-reckless-video-targeting-us-troops-following", "DOW Moves to Punish Senator Featured in Reckless Video Targeting U.S. Troops Following Zinke\u2019s Resolution", "2026-01-05", "2026", "2026-01", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman and former U.S. Navy SEAL Ryan Zinke praised reports that the Department of War is moving to downgrade Sen. Mark Kelly\u2019s military retirement rank and pay following his participation in a video encouraging servicemembers to independently judge and refuse orders from the Commander in Chief.\n\nIn November, Congressman Zinke and 16 other veteran lawmakers introduced a resolution condemning the video released by Sen. Kelly and several Democratic members of Congress, warning that it undermined military discipline and risked politicizing the armed forces. The resolution emphasized that lawful orders, military justice, and civilian control of the military must be handled through established legal and constitutional processes and not through partisan messaging.\n\n\u201cOur resolution condemning Democrat lawmakers for releasing that seditious video was intended to hold them accountable for their actions. Secretary of War Hegseth is taking the next necessary step fulfilling his sworn duty to uphold discipline, the cornerstone of military service,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThe Uniform Code of Military Justice holds soldiers to a higher standard, and individuals like retired Navy Captain Kelly remain subject to it. Advocating that troops must disobey orders deemed \u2018illegal\u2019 by the \u2018Seditious Six\u2019 is a clear violation. Well done, Secretary Hegseth.\u201d\n\nRead Zinke\u2019s full resolution here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-historic-investment-rural-health-care", "Downing Applauds Historic Investment in Rural Health Care", "2025-12-29", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following an announcement that $233,509,359 will be headed to Montana in Fiscal Year 2026 as part of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program enacted in Republicans\u2019 One Big Beautiful Bill.\n\n\u201cNearly every county in Montana is rural, and this historic funding will provide critical support for families across our state,\u201d said Congressman Troy Downing. \u201cI am proud to have voted for the One Big Beautiful Bill which secured this funding, and I look forward to seeing it improve health outcomes in Central and Eastern Montana.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nMontana received the fourth-largest disbursement of funds out of all 50 states for FY 26.\n\nThis funding is the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history.\n\nClick here for a state-by-state summary of program funding.\n\nClick here for a list of RHT Program state project abstracts.\n\nClick here for more information about the RHT Program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-urges-dow-continue-wounded-warrior-service-dog-program", "Downing Urges DOW to Continue Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program", "2025-12-23", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Troy Downing (R-MT) sent a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth alongside Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) expressing his support for the Wounded Warrior Service Dog program (WWSDP) and urging the Department of War (DOW) to continue to carry out the program going forward. Congressman Downing\u2019s efforts have garnered support from Dog Tag Buddies, a Billings-based group dedicated to providing improved daily living and social mobility for veterans living with the invisible wounds of war.\n\n\u201cThe Treasure State has one of the nation's largest veteran populations, many of whom rely on four-legged partners to help them recover from the physical and invisible scars of war,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cI was proud to advocate on behalf of Montana\u2019s veteran community, their service dogs, and the many unsung heroes at partnering organizations who work behind the scenes to make these connections possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program is not a luxury\u2014it is a lifeline,\u201d said DeeDe Baker, Founder & Executive Director, Dog Tag Buddies. \u201cFor veterans in rural states like Montana and North Dakota, it is often the only path to the independence and social mobility that service dogs make possible.\u201d\n\nRead key excerpts from the lawmakers\u2019 letter below:\n\n\u201cWWSDP is a competitive grant program overseen by the Department of War to support nonprofit organizations that help raise service dogs and connect them with veterans. Today, 28 organizations in 23 states rely on this program to place highly trained service dogs with veterans experiencing PTSD, traumatic brain injury, mobility and hearing impairments, blindness, and other life-altering disabilities. This includes two long-standing constituent providers under the program, Dog Tag Buddies in Billings, Montana, and Service Dogs for America, located in Jud, North Dakota. WWDSP has served as an essential support mechanism, enabling veterans in our states to access the life-changing assistance delivered by trained service dogs\u2026\n\n\u201cWe urge your office to take action to continue to carry out WWSDP, including through the reprogramming process and the administrative flexibility available to the Department. This action would critically bridge the gap between FY24 funds and FY26 appropriations. Notably, the House-passed Department of Defense Appropriations Act includes $17 million in funding for the program.\n\n\u201cThe service dogs provided with the support of WWSDP are an essential lifeline for veterans who faced the harshest consequences of war to live independently and have a companion to support them. Without funding for the next year, service dog organizations across the country will be forced to suspend new intakes, stop matching dogs to veterans, and even in some cases shut down services altogether.\u201d\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-passage-bill-delist-gray-wolf", "Downing Applauds Passage of Bill to Delist Gray Wolf", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following his vote supporting passage of H.R. 845, the Pet and Livestock Protection Act. This bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to reissue regulations removing the gray wolf from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.\n\n\u201cMontanans should be able to secure their herds, crops, and personal safety without fear of undue legal repercussions,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cAs written, the ESA makes the gray wolf out to be a liability to avoid, not a resource to be protected. It is critical that we trust the science and look towards a more precise conservation approach when dealing with unique populations. I was proud to support this measure today and look forward to seeing it signed into law.\u201d\n\nImage\n\nWatch Congressman Downing\u2019s remarks in support of H.R. 845 here or by clicking on the image above.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-introduce-bill-increase-access-public-lands-improve", "Downing, Daines, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Increase Access to Public Lands, Improve Forest Management", "2025-12-18", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), alongside U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, introduced the \u201cMontana Sportsmen Conservation Act.\u201d The bill returns three Wilderness Study Areas (WSA) to general management. Each WSA is recommended for release by their respective agency\u2019s land and resource management plan revisions and retains certain protections for these WSA\u2019s while providing more flexibility for land managers to mitigate wildfire risk, restore wildlife habitat, and increase sportsmen access.\n\n\u201cLand management must be fit for purpose, and the science shows that the Hoodoo Mountain, Wales Creek, and Middle Fork Judith Wilderness Study Areas would be better served without their WSA designations. I\u2019m proud to lead the effort in the House to return these lands to general management, unlocking public access and breaking down barriers preventing effective stewardship. I look forward to working with Senators Daines and Sheehy to get this commonsense measure across the finish line,\u201d said Downing.\n\n\u201cAs a lifelong sportsman, increasing access to Montana\u2019s great outdoors is one of my top priorities. The \u2018Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act\u2019 promotes our outdoor way of life by returning restrictive WSA\u2019s to general public land management, which will improve wildlife habitat restoration, reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires, and unlock better access to public lands. I look forward to working with Senator Sheehy, Representative Zinke, and Representative Downing to get this bill across the finish line,\u201d said Daines.\n\n\u201cIncreasing access to our public lands and conserving the open spaces that we all enjoy, define our way of life, and create our shared heritage is something we can all agree on, and that\u2019s exactly what the Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act delivers. Working to combat wildfire risk, better steward our lands, improve wildlife habitat, and continue to protect our right to hunt, fish, and recreate on our public lands is Montana common sense, and I\u2019m proud to stand with Senator Daines in this critical mission,\u201d said Sheehy.\n\nRead the bill text HERE.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe three Wilderness Study Areas Daines\u2019 bill would return to general public land management are the Middle Fork Judith WSA, the Hoodoo Mountain WSA, and the Wales Creek WSA.\n\nThe bill has garnered support across the state- read letters of support below.\n\nJudith Basin County Commissioners\n\nPowell County Commissioners\n\nMontana Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife\n\nMontana Farm Bureau Federation\n\nGreat Falls Bicycle Club\n\nMontana Outfitters and Guides Association\n\nThis bill is also supported by Montana Logging Association and Montana Snowmobiles Association.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-provide-regulatory-clarity-fixed-income-market-takes-next-step", "Downing Bill to Provide Regulatory Clarity for the Fixed-Income Market Takes Next Step Toward Becoming Law", "2025-12-17", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s (MT-02) H.R. 3959, the Protecting Private Job Creators Act, was reported favorably out of the House Financial Services Committee in a 41-11 bipartisan vote, taking a critical step toward becoming law.\n\nThis bill exempts fixed-income securities from Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Rule 15c2-11, protecting American jobs and providing regulatory clarity for the U.S. market for fixed income securities.\n\n\u201cSecurities regulation must be fit for purpose or risk harming the very markets it is meant to protect,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThe SEC\u2019s rule 15c2-11 is one such case where a misinterpretation of financial regulation has left the market for fixed-income securities worse off, threatening reduced liquidity and harm to private capital formation. I\u2019m proud of the bipartisan support this legislation received today and look forward to getting it across the finish line.\u201d\n\nRead text of the Protecting Private Job Creators Acthere.\n\nImage\n\nWatch Congressman Downing\u2019s remarks in support of H.R. 3959 here or by clicking on the image above.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe SEC adopted Rule 15c2-11 to protect investors from fraud in the over-the-counter (OTC) market.\n\nIn a 2021 no-action letter, SEC staff explained that they intended to begin enforcing the Rule in fixed-income markets, a reversal of 50 years of regulatory practice.\n\nApplying the Rule to fixed-income markets would deter dealers from offering a wide range of fixed income securities to investors.\n\nA 2022 study found that applying the Rule to fixed-income securities would result in 30,000 fewer jobs each year over the next five years, 50,000 fewer jobs each year over the following five years, and 100,000 fewer jobs each year thereafter, decreasing U.S. GDP by $100 billion over the next ten years.\n\nDespite halting enforcement action related to the 2021 no-action letter, the SEC has yet to provide updated regulatory clarity regarding the Rule.\n\nRep. Downing\u2019s bipartisan Protecting Private Job Creators Act exempts fixed-income securities from the Rule, protecting American jobs and providing regulatory clarity for the U.S. market for fixed income securities.\n\nSupporting organizations include the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), National Association of Manufacturers, American Securities Association, Investment Adviser Association, CRE Finance Council,US Chamber of Commerce, Loan Syndications and Trading Association, Structured Finance Association, Bond Dealers of America, Investment Company Institute, and Managed Funds Association.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-31T05:33:41Z", "2026-03-31T05:34:51Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-daines-sheehy-request-presidential-emergency-declaration-northwest", "Zinke, Daines, Sheehy Request Presidential Emergency Declaration for Northwest Montana", "2025-12-16", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke, as well as U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, today sent a letter to President Trump in support of Governor Greg Gianforte\u2019s emergency declaration request for Lincoln County, Sanders County, and the Blackfeet Tribe following a catastrophic severe storm and flooding event.\n\n\u201cOn December 10-11, 2025, intense rainfall combined with snowmelt caused major flooding in Lincoln and Sanders County as well as on Blackfeet tribal land in Northwest Montana. Rivers in the area experienced flood stages of between 7.5 feet and 8.3 feet and caused major infrastructure damage, making multiple bridges impassable and causing the failure of the Lower Flower Creek Dam which regulates water distribution to the city of Libby. The failure of the Lower Flower Creek Dam has significantly disrupted water delivery operations in Libby, and emergency action was required to prevent further structural failure of the dam. As a result of that preventative action, water delivered to the city of Libby has a turbidity level above safe consumption standards, and elevated levels of metals in the water threaten to require a \u201cdo not consume\u201d order. Northwest Montana\u2019s communities are facing the prospect of repairing damaged infrastructure without access to potable water.\n\n\u201cThe State of Montana needs assistance in first addressing the immediate crisis regarding the impacted dam near the city of Libby, as well as financial assistance to offset the costs of infrastructure stabilization and repair. We urge you to promptly approve this request for an emergency declaration and look forward to your timely response,\u201d they wrote in the letter.\n\nRead the full letter HERE.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-expand-access-capital-rural-small-businesses-included-invest-act", "Downing  Bill to Expand Access to Capital for Rural Small Businesses Included in INVEST Act", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following the passage of H.R. 3383, the Increasing Investor Opportunities Act (INVEST Act), which includes his Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act.\n\n\u201cRural small businesses are the backbone of Central and Eastern Montana,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cBy including my Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act, the INVEST Act directs the SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to finally give rural Main Street the attention and support it deserves. I\u2019m proud to have championed this legislation, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.\u201d\n\nRead more about Congressman Downing\u2019s Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act:\n\nThe SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation is required to identify problems that small businesses face when securing access to capital and submit an annual report to Congress.\n\nCurrently, the Office\u2019s list of applicable entities are minority-owned, women-owned, and disaster-stricken small businesses.\n\nThis legislation would require the SEC\u2019s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to add rural small businesses to its list of applicable entities.\n\nRead more about the INVEST Act:\n\nExpands access to capital for small businesses by cutting red tape, updating outdated investment thresholds, and ensuring that capital reaches beyond Wall Street and Silicon Valley to entrepreneurs across the heartland.\n\nIncreases opportunities for investors by modernizing the accredited investor definition, opening up investment options, and protecting seniors from financial fraud and exploitation.\n\nStrengthens public markets by streamlining disclosure requirements, providing businesses more flexible avenues to raise capital, and modernizing how companies test the market before initial public offerings (IPOs).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-bill-unlock-montana-mining-signed-law-president-trump", "Downing,\u00a0Daines\u00a0Bill to Unlock Montana Mining Signed into Law by President Trump", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Ryan Zinke (MT-01) today announced that President Trump signed their bill that unlocks Eastern Montana mining into law. The bill removes the harmful Biden-era Miles City Resource Management Plan Amendment (RMPA), which will further help unleash Made-In-Montana energy.\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, America needs affordable, reliable energy to fuel our new golden age,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cWith the signing of my bill to permanently roll back burdensome restrictions on coal leasing for the nation\u2019s largest deposit, we aren\u2019t just meeting the demands of today, we\u2019re ensuring that we can power our country\u2019s future. We are also making sure that subsequent administrations cannot undo the good work of the current one, safeguarding American energy independence. I thank Senator Daines and the entire Montana Congressional Delegation for their leadership and look forward to seeing this legislation bring revenue and jobs back to the Treasure State.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday marks a massive win for both Montana and the nation. Biden\u2019s disastrous Miles City RMPA was an anti-coal rule that would\u2019ve blocked future coal leasing on two million acres of land, stifled job growth and caused the loss of over $4.3 billion in future revenue to our state,\u201d said Senator Daines. \u201cBut now, thanks to the hard work of our Montana delegation, Biden\u2019s rule is repealed and Montana energy is back. Thank you President Trump for fighting for Made-In-Montana energy and for protecting America\u2019s energy dominance.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to President Trump for signing this bill into law and putting an end to radical Biden-era regulations that put our resource economy on life support,\u201d said Senator Sheehy. \u201cTogether, we are delivering the America First, commonsense policies Montanans voted for to achieve American energy dominance, create jobs, and make energy affordable, accessible, and reliable again. I\u2019ll continue working alongside President Trump and the Montana delegation to unleash Montana\u2019s resource economy, protect Montana jobs, and bring prosperity to rural Montana communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation will lower energy costs by unlocking Montana\u2019s vast natural resources and brings security to the jobs of the hardworking men and women who mine in Montana,\u201d said Congressman Zinke. \u201cThe Biden administration\u2019s Miles City MRPA would have restricted coal leasing on over two million acres, driving up energy prices and costing Montana millions in revenue. Thanks to President Trump and our Montana delegation, that won\u2019t happen. This is another success in the fight to make energy more affordable and protect the families who depend on it.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nDowning and Daines introduced the Congressional Review Act resolution with Sheehy and Zinke in July 2025. Read the release here. See Downing and Daines\u2019 video statement here.\n\nThe bill has widespread support, including from Montana Governor Greg Gianforte. Read Governor Gianforte\u2019s letter of support here. See additional quotes of support here.\n\nThe Biden administration\u2019s Miles City RMPA made nearly two million acres unavailable for coal leasing within the Miles City Field Office planning area and prohibited new coal leasing in the Powder River Basin. It also would have caused the loss of over $4.32 billion in future revenue to State trust land beneficiaries.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-daines-introduce-bill-support-irrigation-protect-montana", "ICYMI:  Downing,\u00a0Daines\u00a0Introduce Bill to Support Irrigation, Protect Montana Endangered Species", "2025-12-11", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) and Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) introduced the \u201cLower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act.\u201d The bill reaffirms that the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) retains exclusive ownership, operational control, and financial responsibility for the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel, built to support the recovery of the endangered pallid sturgeon. Downing and Daines\u2019 bill provides critical protections for irrigators, ensuring that local communities are not unfairly charged for federal projects and are protected from bearing the costs of long-term conservation efforts.\n\n\u201cThis bill provides a common sense solution to what should be a common sense issue on the Lower Yellowstone River,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cIt's good for irrigators, good for taxpayers, good for the sturgeon, and ensures long-term operational and financial stability for the Lower Yellowstone Fish Bypass Channel in Eastern Montana. I\u2019m proud to have such a great partner in Senator Daines to champion this legislation and look forward to getting it across the finish line.\u201d\n\n\u201cMontana\u2019s local communities should not be unfairly burdened by costly federal projects,'\u201c said Senator Daines. \u201cI\u2019m thrilled to work alongside Representative Downing to introduce the \u2018Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act,\u2019 which will help protect Montana\u2019s endangered species and provide essential operational and financial stability for the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel.\u201d\n\nRead bill text here.\n\nBackground:\n\nAuthorized in 2007 and built by Bureau of Reclamation, the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel mitigates harm to the endangered pallid sturgeon and lies outside the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project. While LYIP repays irrigation infrastructure costs, the bypass's repair needs stem from federal obligations and LYIP believes they should not (and cannot afford) to reimburse BOR for repair and maintenance costs. In the winter often minivan-sized pieces of ice crash into these bypasses causing extensive damage that the LYIP cannot afford to repair.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-authorization-sentinel-project-funding-ndaa", "Downing Applauds Authorization of Sentinel Project Funding in NDAA", "2025-12-10", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following his vote supporting the passage of S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes the authorization of $3,847,563,000 in funding for the Ground Based Strategic Deterrence Program (Sentinel) for FY26.\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, America is being called upon to deliver peace through strength,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cWith this mandate comes no shortage of adversaries who wish our great nation harm. That\u2019s why today, I supported legislation that invests in our national security by authorizing funding for the Sentinel program at Malmstrom Air Force Base. Sentinel is a cornerstone of America\u2019s land based nuclear deterrence and brings highly specialized jobs to Great Falls. I\u2019m proud of this vote and will always put our men and women in uniform first.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-announces-2025-service-academy-nominees", "Downing Announces 2025 Service Academy Nominees", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) announced his principle nominations to United States Service Academies for the year 2025.\n\nThe application process is open to high school juniors annually and includes a rigorous vetting process. Downing\u2019s office received 19 submissions. Click here to learn more about the academy nomination process.\n\n\u201cThe size and quality of this year\u2019s applicant pool speak volumes of the patriotism and talent of Montana\u2019s next generation,\u201dsaid Congressman Downing. \u201cI was proud to see so many young men and women from across the Second District take an interest in our Academies and in service to our country. I wish this year\u2019s nominees and all of our applicants the best of luck in their future endeavors. You bring honor upon yourselves, your state, and your country.\u201d\n\nSee below for a list of principal nominees from the Office of Congressman Troy Downing:\n\nU.S. Naval Academy: Colton Bush, Billings West High School\n\nU.S. Military Academy: William Wallace, Billings West High School\n\nU.S. Air Force Academy: Anna Dewell, Joliet High School\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-supports-bill-reauthorize-secure-rural-schools-program", "Downing Supports Bill to Reauthorize Secure Rural Schools Program", "2025-12-09", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following his vote supporting passage of S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025. This bill would extend the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program through Fiscal Year 2026 and provide lapsed payments for 2024 and 2025.\n\n\u201cMontana\u2019s students and teachers lost out on millions in funding when Congress failed to reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools Program,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cAs a former educator, I understand that every penny counts when it comes to the classroom. I was proud to support this measure today that ensures rural communities in central and eastern Montana have the funds they need to provide the best education for our next generation.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe first SRS program was authorized in 2000 with the enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act.\n\nThis legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt.\n\nThe program provides payments to county governments in areas where those forests are located because counties do not receive tax revenue from federal land; the payments come through timber receipts and other revenue generating activities within U.S. national forests.\n\nCongressman Downing joined Western Caucus Chairman Doug LaMalfa and several of his colleagues in a bipartisan, bicameral letter to House leadership requesting urgent reauthorization of the SRS program. Read the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/veteran-lawmakers-introduce-resolution-condemning-democrat-lawmakers-reckless", "Veteran Lawmakers Introduce Resolution Condemning Democrat Lawmakers\u2019 Reckless Call for Military Disobedience", "2025-12-04", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman and former Navy SEAL Commander Ryan Zinke and Representative and former Army Sergeant Rick Crawford (AR-01) along with 16 other veteran lawmakers introduced a resolution condemning Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Representatives Jason Crow (CO-06), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Maggie Goodlander (NH-01), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) for publicly urging members of the United States military and intelligence community to independently judge and refuse orders from the Commander in Chief, an action that risks violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and undermining national security.\n\nOn November 18, 2025, the six Members of Congress released a video accusing the Trump Administration of \u201cpitting\u201d the military and intelligence community against American citizens. They urged servicemembers and intelligence professionals to independently judge the legality of presidential orders and pledged to \u201chave their backs\u201d if they refuse to follow directives they personally deem \u201cillegal.\u201d When later pressed for evidence of any unlawful orders, Senator Slotkin admitted she was \u201cnot aware of things [orders] that are illegal,\u201d and others offered no proof to support their claims.\n\nThe resolution states:\n\nDenouncing dangerous and seditious rhetoric by Members of Congress and expressing condemnation of Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Elissa Slotkin, Representative Jason Crow, Representative Christopher Deluzio, Representative Maggie Goodlander, and Representative Chrissy Houlahan for attempting to sow disallegiance amongst members of the United States military and intelligence community and encouraging them to act against the Commander in Chief and President of the United States and violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice.\n\nIt continues:\n\nWhereas Congress, which holds the power to declare war, was so concerned that the chain of command could be undermined by individuals encouraging disloyalty by members of the military that it made it a Federal crime to advise, counsel, urge, or in any manner cause or attempt to cause insubordination, disloyalty, mutiny, or refusal of duty by any member of the military;\n\nWhereas, in a video posted on November 18, 2025, and widely disseminated across social media and the news, the aforementioned Members of Congress urged the military and intelligence communities to defy \u2018\u2018illegal\u2019\u2019 orders, insinuating, without evidence, that the administration has been issuing these types of orders;\n\nWhereas UCMJ case law has held that orders are presumed lawful, outside of those obviously unlawful, and are \u2018\u2018disobeyed at the peril of the subordinate\u2019\u2019, without consideration to the \u2018\u2018person\u2019s conscience, religion, or personal philosophy\u2019\u2019;\n\nIf adopted the House of Representatives would hold that it\u2026\n\n\u201c\u2026denounces the dangerous and seditious rhetoric spewing from these six Members of Congress that has led to an environment placing troops and their loved ones at risk of harm, compromising and undermining the national security of the United States and the peaceful coexistence and respect deserved by our brave men and women serving in the military and the intelligence community.\u201d\n\nThe resolution is co-sponsored by veteran lawmakers Rick Crawford (AR-01), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Scott Franklin (FL-18), John McGuire (VA-05), Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Keith Self (TX-03), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Jim Baird (IN-04), Barry Moore (AL-01), as well as Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Randy Fine (FL-06), Mike Collins (GA-10), Rick Allen (GA-12), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Pete Sessions (TX-17), and John H. Rutherford (FL-05).\n\nRead the full resolution here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-sheehy-statements-proposed-sheep-creek-mine", "Zinke, Sheehy Statements on Proposed Sheep Creek Mine", "2025-12-02", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representative Ryan Zinke (MT-01) and Senator Tim Sheehy released the following statements on the proposed Sheep Creek mine today:\n\n\u201cMontana knows better than anyone there\u2019s a right and wrong way to mine. Fast tracking a mine with overwhelming public opposition and bypassing the mechanisms that allow for transparency and accountability is the wrong way to do it. Ravalli County officials and residents have been clear in their concerns and opposition to this project. It has fallen on deaf ears and they have received no communication from the company. I urge the council to remove Sheep Creek from the FAST 41 process,\u201d said Representative Zinke.\n\n\u201cI strongly support unleashing Montana\u2019s resource economy and mining industry. I also believe local voices must be heard loudest when considering public lands policy. Regarding the Sheep Creek Mine, local Montanans have made their opposition clear, therefore I oppose efforts to approve the proposed Sheep Creek Mine and encourage the Permitting Council to remove it from their fast-track list,\u201d said Senator Sheehy.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-crack-down-covid-loan-fraud-passes-house", "Downing Bill to Crack Down on COVID Loan Fraud Passes House", "2025-12-01", "2025", "2025-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s (MT-02) H.R. 4495, the SBA Fraud Enforcement Extension Act, passed the House of Representatives by voice vote. This is Downing\u2019s third bill to be reported favorably out of the House of Representatives, a critical step toward H.R. 4495 becoming law.\n\nRead original reporting from Western Montana News on the SBA Fraud Enforcement Extension Act here.\n\n\u201cThroughout the COVID-19 pandemic, billions of taxpayer dollars were siphoned off through fraudulent loans and grants,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cThis legislation gives law enforcement the tools they need to pursue those who exploited emergency relief programs, strengthens the integrity of the SBA, and protects hardworking Americans\u2019 tax dollars. I\u2019m proud to see this bill pass the House with bipartisan support, and I remain committed to ensuring that those who abused these funds are brought to justice.\u201d\n\nImage\n\nClick here or on the image above to watch Congressman Downing\u2019s remarks in support of H.R. 4495 on the House floor.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe SBA Office of the Inspector General estimates that approximately $200 billion in illegitimate funds have been distributed by SBA COVID Programs.\n\nTwo of these SBA COVID-era programs, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, targeted financial assistance toward businesses that rely on confined gathering places and were thus disproportionately harmed by lockdown policies.\n\nWhile COVID-era SBA programs in many cases delivered much needed aid to small businesses, they were also exploited to an unacceptable degree by criminals seeking to defraud American taxpayers and secure illegitimate loans and grants.\n\nH.R. 4495 extends the statute of limitations for the enforcement of anti-fraud standards involving the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and the Shuttered Venue Program from 5 years to 10 years to allow prosecutors and law enforcement additional time to investigate and prosecute these crimes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:09:11Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-zinke-and-moore-praise-trump-administrations-decision-make-our-national", "Reps. Zinke and Moore Praise the Trump Administration\u2019s Decision to Make Our National Parks Beautiful Again", "2025-11-26", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke and Congressman Riley M. Moore (WV-02) applauded the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to secure the future of America\u2019s national parks through a new fee structure that ensures international visitors are paying their fair share to keep our national heritage beautiful. The recent policy, issued by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, establishes an Annual Pass that will cost $80 for U.S. residents and $250 for nonresidents and will apply an additional $100 surcharge per foreign visitor to enter 11 of the most visited national parks while keeping the entrance fee for Americans the same.\n\nThe National Parks system faces a $23 billion deferred maintenance backlog. This America-First policy will ensure our children and grandchildren can enjoy our great natural heritage for years to come, beautify our National Parks, and secure funding to address our critical maintenance backlog.\n\nCongressman Zinke and Congressman Moore issued the following joint statement:\n\n\u201cPresident Trump and Secretary Burgum are putting Americans first by asking foreign visitors to pay their fair share while holding entrance fees steady for the American people. This policy ensures that our beautiful national heritage is preserved and the critical maintenance backlog is addressed so that America\u2019s national parks will remain affordable, well-maintained, and financially sustainable for generations to come. We owe it to future generations of Americans - our children and grandchildren - to ensure our beautiful natural heritage that God created is well preserved.\n\nNow, Congress must act to codify this America-First fee structure by passing our bill, The PATRIOT Parks Act. Our legislation is essential to guaranteeing that these reforms remain in place for generations to come, and that Americans are put First in our own parks.\u201d\n\nIn July, Congressman Ryan Zinke and Congressman Riley M. Moore introduced the PATRIOT Parks Act in the House- which codifies President Trump\u2019s Executive Order \u201cMaking America Beautiful Agenda by Improving Our National Parks.\u201dSenators Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Jim Banks (R-IN) and introduced companion legislation in the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-60-minutes-he-zinke-called-land-sale-proposal-his-san-juan-hill-nod", "ICYMI: 60 Minutes - \u201cHe (Zinke) called the land sale proposal his San Juan Hill, a nod to Teddy Roosevelt, noted conservationist\u2026 Rough translation: over my dead body.\u201d", "2025-11-24", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "November 24, 2025\n\nZinke spoke to 60 Minutes about Montana's public land heritage and why he fights to protect it\n\nBozeman, MT. \u2013 Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke spoke with Jon Wertheim of 60 Minutes about his lifelong commitment to protecting public lands and his recent success stripping a provision that would have sold more than 450,000 acres of public land from the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act\u2019, as well as working with his colleagues to remove a similar provision from the Senate version of the bill.\n\nWatch the full episode here.\n\nRead the full transcript of the episode here.\n\nExcerpt from \"Why Montana fought to protect federal public lands and what's at stake if they were sold off\" - CBS \u201c60 Minutes\u201d\n\nBy Jon Wertheim, David M. Levine\n\nAired November 23, 2025\n\nZinke grew up in Whitefish, Montana and served as a secretary of the interior during President Trump's first term. Now, he represents western Montana in the house. He called the land sale proposal his San Juan Hill, a nod to Teddy Roosevelt, noted conservationist\u2026 Rough translation: over my dead body.\n\nRep. Ryan Zinke: Public lands is not, to me, on a balance sheet. Public lands is our inheritance- of this great nation. And we're blessed with it. There is no other country on the face of the planet that has the public land experience that we do.\n\nOn this issue, Zinke's no ideologue. On a case-by-case basis, within the existing laws, he says he's open to rethinking public land use. What he does oppose: wholesale selloff.\n\nRep. Ryan Zinke: You could sell the entirety of the federal estate, it's not gonna get you out of debt.\n\nRep. Ryan Zinke: If you have a hotel, and the hotel is being mismanaged, you don't sell the hotel. You get new management. And then if you sell the public land, you sell it all, right? Have you changed why you're in debt? No, you've just sold your assets.\n\nJon Wertheim: People supporting this say, \"What's the harm of unlocking some of this so we can build affordable housing?\" Why-- why are those people wrong?\n\nRep. Ryan Zinke: If we wanna discuss, you know, reality-- you know, selling all our public land for housing one it doesn't-- won't solve the housing crisis. And secondly-- you know, public land itself\u2026 if it's managed well, you should be able to bring timber off of it. You should be able to graze. Energy-- oil, coal, gas, all-- a lot of that comes from our public lands.\n\nZinke was instrumental in getting the land sale proposal killed in the House. He then coordinated with his colleagues in the Senate, where Mike Lee had crafted a special carve out exempting Montana. But that didn't win over the state's delegation. The measure was abandoned.\n\nIn a statement to \"60 Minutes,\" Sen. Lee said in part, quote, \"the federal government controls more land than it can manage, hurting the growth and prosperity of American families and their communities.\"\n\nPerhaps more than any other state, Montana stood in the breach, thwarting the sale efforts, though there is widespread expectation public land sales will come up again in Congress.\n\nJon Wertheim: This is an era where party unity in-- in the Republican party is strong. You-- you went against the grain here. You stuck your neck out.\n\nRep. Ryan Zinke: It's a red, white, and blue issue. It's not a Democrat or Republican issue. This is an American issue. And once you sell land, you're not gonna get it back.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-right-sizes-regulation-american-conservation", "Downing Bill Right Sizes Regulation for American Conservation", "2025-11-21", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act. This bill exempts ecosystem restoration projects in regulated floodplains from having to demonstrate no net impact on base flood elevation.\n\nRepresentatives Janelle Bynum (OR-02), Bryan Steil (WI-01), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) are original cosponsors of the legislation. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Patty Murray (D-WA) have introduced companion legislation. The National Association of Conservation Districts supports the legislation.\n\nRead text of the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Acthere.\n\nRead reporting on the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Acthere.\n\n\u201cFEMA\u2019s No-Rise Rule is hindering conservation efforts across the state of Montana and across the country,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cMy bipartisan legislation cuts this burdensome red tape, empowering locally supported conservation and restoration projects. I appreciate my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me in this common sense measure to right size regulation for American conservation.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnvironmental restoration projects across Oregon \u2013 and the country \u2013 are being held up by unnecessary red tape when they don\u2019t need to be,\u201d said Rep. Bynum. \u201cIt\u2019s resulting in canceled projects and costing our communities thousands of dollars. I\u2019m thankful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for partnering with me on this important legislation that will protect our communities, restore our environment, and remove barriers to progress.\u201d\n\n\u201cBureaucratic red tape should not stall common sense restoration projects,\u201d said Steil. \u201cThe Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act eases administrative burdens and empowers Wisconsin communities to make our waterways healthier, strengthen our resilience to floods, and enhance ecosystems across the nation. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation. Thank you Rep. Downing for your leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommunities in Montana and across the country will benefit from No Rise Reform,\u201d said Jeremy Peters, CEO of the National Association of Conservation Districts. \u201cA streamlined approval process for ecosystem restoration projects will continue to protect against flooding while easing the cost and administrative burdens land stewards currently face carrying out projects vital for the clean water, healthy soil, and habitats we all rely on. Our nation\u2019s conservation districts welcome this clear and flexible approach to restoring ecosystems in regulated floodways. Thanks to the Montana Association of Conservation Districts, Montana\u2019s conservation districts, and Representatives Downing, Bynum, Gluesenkamp Perez, and Steil for their efforts to advance the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act reflects the kind of forward-thinking reform that will enable locally driven conservation and restoration projects throughout Montana and the U.S. MACD would like to thank Rep. Downing and Reps. Bynum, Gluesenkamp Perez, and Steil for their work on this issue,\u201d said the Montana Association of Conservation Districts.\n\n\u201cMany conservation districts in Montana have had to shrink, delay, or even abandon stream restoration projects due to complications and increased costs caused by floodplain permitting and its engineering requirements. These requirements are unnecessary and burdensome in rural Montana where there is no potential for impact on structures or other properties. The Floodplain Recovery and Enhancement Act is a great step in the right direction for resolving this issue,\u201d said the Missouri River Conservation Districts Council.\n\n\u201cHigh Plains Conservation District fully supports Representative Downing\u2019s legislation to amend the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014. The no-rise rule applied as it has been, at least in Cascade County, MT, has made it virtually impossible to apply sound management and restore riparian buffers. The cost for an analysis is too prohibitive. Many times, a full analysis costs more than the full project itself. And so, our landscapes are suffering,\u201d said the High Plains Conservation District.\n\n\u201cAs a headwaters state, the improvements that small restoration projects make to streams in Montana add up to big water quality and habitat benefits for the watersheds and streams and rivers downstream. We support No Rise Reform,\u201d said the Lewis & Clark Conservation District\n\nBackground:\n\nUnder current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) policy, any proposed development in a regulated floodway must prove that it will not increase the base flood elevation (BFE) of the area. This requirement is commonly referred to as the \u201cNo Rise\u201d rule.\n\nWhile important for protecting communities from increased flood risks, the No Rise Rule has had major unintended consequences on important environmental restoration in Montana and around the country.\n\nThe Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act allows communities to permit ecosystem restoration projects in a regulated floodway if a professional engineer proves that the project will not increase base flood elevation by more than 1 foot, and no insurable structure or any critical infrastructure is in an area that would be adversely impacted by the increased base flood elevation.\n\nThis alleviates conservation projects from the traditional burdensome and drawn-out FEMA approval process.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-ai-wise-act-clears-key-committee-vote", "Downing\u2019s AI-WISE Act Clears Key Committee Vote", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Intuit\n\n\u201cWe write today to express our support of H.R. 5784, the Artificial Intelligence Wisdom for Innovative Small Enterprises Act or the \u2018AI-WISE Act\u2019.\n\n\u201cIntuit's mission is to power prosperity around the world and we believe that artificial intelligence (AI) represents the most transformative technology of our generation, offering unparalleled opportunities for small businesses to save time, increase productivity, and achieve financial success.\n\n\u201cHowever, the effective adoption of AI, especially complex \u2018agentic AI\u2019 now being integrated into financial and marketing solutions requires a foundational level of education and trust. The AI-WISE Act addresses this critical need by directing the Small Business Administration (SBA) to establish high-quality, actionable, and neutral educational resources for small business concerns.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-bipartisan-bill-codify-successful-wildlife-crossing-program", "Zinke Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Codify Successful Wildlife Crossing Program", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke and Congressman Don Beyer (VA \u2013 08) introduced the Wildlife Road Crossings Program Reauthorization Act of 2025, legislation to make the highly successful Wildlife Crossings Program a permanent part of federal law and extend its authorization through fiscal year 2031. The program provides grant funding to state and tribal governments to construct wildlife crossings such as overpasses and underpasses, in an effort to minimize the number of accidents involving wildlife and vehicles and improve habitat connectivity.\n\nCongressman Zinke has been the driving force behind federal wildlife crossing and migration corridor policy for nearly a decade. As Secretary of the Interior, he signed Secretarial Order 3362 in 2018, directing federal agencies to partner with western states to map, protect, and enhance elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and other migration routes. That order laid the groundwork for the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program created in 2021. In 2024 (and reintroduced in 2025), Zinke built on that foundation by introducing the bipartisan Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act to codify Secretarial Order 3362 and expand voluntary, state-led conservation of migration corridors.\n\n\u201cWildlife crossings save lives and are good for healthy herds,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cAs the Secretary of the Interior I launched the first federal effort to protect big-game migration corridors and dedicate federal dollars to crossings in the west. This bill locks in the progress we started, keeps the funding flowing to the states and tribes that need it most, and ensures Montana families don\u2019t have to risk their lives or lose the wildlife we all cherish driving to work or school.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery year, more than 1 million wildlife-vehicle collisions are reported across the United States, resulting in human and wildlife fatalities and costing billions of dollars in damages. We know there are proven solutions \u2013 such as culverts, bridges and tunnels that allow animals to migrate safely \u2013 to reduce these incidents and save lives,\u201d said Rep. Beyer. \u201cOur bill would invest in these solutions by reauthorizing the Wildlife Crossings Program and allowing it to continue funding wildlife-friendly transportation infrastructure that saves lives, lowers costs, and improves road safety for drivers and wildlife alike.\u201d\n\nKey provisions of the Wildlife Road Crossings Program Reauthorization Act of 2025:\n\nPermanently authorizes the Wildlife Crossings Program by removing the word \u201cpilot\u201d from federal law.\n\nExtends funding authorization for fiscal years 2026 through 2031.\n\nProvides 100% federal cost share for projects led by Indian tribes.\n\nCreates a dedicated Tribal technical assistance program to help tribes navigate applications and speed project delivery.\n\nAllows unobligated funds to carry forward so slow federal processing doesn\u2019t punish rural states.\n\nKeeps administrative costs capped at one-half of one percent so the maximum amount reaches actual projects.\n\nMontana is already a national model with active and planned wildlife crossings on U.S. Highway 191 in Gallatin Canyon, Highway 93 on the Flathead Indian Reservation, and other high-collision corridors. The state has consistently ranked among the top recipients of federal wildlife crossing grants.\n\nRead more about the Wildlife Crossing Program here.\n\nRead the full text of the legislation here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-bipartisan-strengthening-resources-our-schools-act", "Zinke Introduces Bipartisan Strengthening Resources for Our Schools Act", "2025-11-18", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke and Rep. Donald G. Davis (NC-01) introduced the Strengthening Resources for Our Schools (SROs) Act, a bipartisan-backed measure to enhance school safety, protect students from violence, and create meaningful second-career opportunities for America\u2019s veterans and retired law enforcement officers. Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.\n\n\u201cThis bill is a true Montana solution: we trust our law enforcement and our veterans to protect our communities, and this legislation puts those proven protectors back in our schools to keep Montana children safe,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cIn rural Montana, the nearest deputy can be an hour away, sometimes far more when the roads are iced over or a blizzard rolls in. We cannot wait for help to arrive after something happens. We have to stop trouble before it starts, and that means having trained, trusted law enforcement on campus every single day. The SROs Act removes the federal tax penalty that keeps our retired Montana peace officers and combat veterans on the sidelines, so they can step up, protect our kids, mentor the next generation, and keep every dollar of the hard-earned retirement they sacrificed to earn.\u201d\n\n\u201cKeeping the American people safe, especially young kids in school, is one of government\u2019s most solemn duties, and that starts by empowering local communities with local solutions. The SROs Act is an America First common sense bill that protects students and supports our veterans and retired law enforcement officers who want to continue serving by making our schools and communities safer,\u201d said Senator Tim Sheehy.\n\n\u201cAbove all, our most important responsibility to our children must be their safety,\u201d said Congressman Don Davis. \u201cBy incentivizing retired public servants to serve once again as a school resource officer, we are preventing tragedies in our classrooms before they happen.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is also co-sponsored by Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and has earned strong support from law enforcement organizations nationwide, including the Police Officers Defense Coalition, the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association, the Western States Sheriffs\u2019 Association, and the Montana Sheriffs & Peace Officers Association.\n\nKey provisions of the SROs Act of 2025:\n\nAmends the Internal Revenue Code to grant a federal income tax exemption on retirement income for any qualified retired law enforcement officer or military veteran who returns to work as a certified School Resource Officer (SRO) and meets all applicable POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) requirements.\n\nProvides a permanent, lifetime federal tax exemption on retirement income for those who serve at least ten years as an SROs\n\nThe bill strengthens school safety in the wake of continued threats and tragic incidents, respects Second Amendment rights, and offers veterans and retired law enforcement a dignified way to continue protecting and mentoring the next generation.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-secures-2-million-funding-red-lodge-fire-station-upgrades", "Downing Secures $2 Million in Funding for Red Lodge Fire Station Upgrades", "2025-11-13", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026 as part of Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2026.\n\nIncluded in this bill is Congressman Troy Downing\u2019s (MT-02) Community Project Funding request for Red Lodge Fire District 7 which delivers $1,995,000 in project funding for station upgrades.\n\n\u201cOur first responders have our backs on our worst days. It\u2019s only right that when they need our help, we have theirs,\u201d said Congressman Downing. \u201cRural fire departments are the backbone of emergency response in Montana, and I couldn\u2019t be more proud to see $2 million in funding for Red Lodge Fire Rescue included in this legislation to expand and enhance their operations in Carbon County. Special thanks to Chief Tom Kuntz and the brave men and women of RLFR for your continued service to our community\u2014nobody is more deserving.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are sincerely grateful to Congressman Downing for his leadership and his commitment to supporting first responders,\u201d said Red Lodge Fire Rescue Chief Tom Kuntz. \u201cOver the past few years, our small community has been hit by extreme wildfires, devastating floods, and complex search-and-rescue missions, and every time our volunteers have shown up to help their neighbors when they needed it most. Modernizing and expanding our station will give those volunteers the space, training environment, and facilities they need to stay ready to protect the Red Lodge community for decades to come.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nRed Lodge Fire Rescue (RLFR) serves a large rural area of 600 square miles with a population of approximately 3,500 people for Fire and EMS response, and an area of 2,000 square miles for Search and Rescue with a population of approximately 10,000 people.\n\nThe project funding Congressman Downing secured totals $1,995,000 and will help expand and update RLFR\u2019s fire station, an essential investment to meet the region\u2019s growing emergency response needs.\n\nThe funds will be used to expand apparatus bays, training space, and facilities for responders to rest or stay on-site during extended emergencies. These improvements will increase volunteer participation, improve safety, and enhance readiness in the face of increasing emergencies.\n\nRead a list of Congressman Downing\u2019s funding requests in alphabetical order here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-statement-end-government-shutdown", "Downing Statement on End of the Government Shutdown", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Troy Downing", "D000634", "downing.house.gov", "downing", "https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following a vote in the United States House of Representatives to reopen the federal government and end the 42 day-long government shutdown.\n\n\u201cAfter more than 42 days, Congress has finally reopened the government. With the Senate\u2019s amendments to our clean CR passed, Americans across the country who have been deprived of nutritional assistance, critical programs, or their paychecks will no longer face the hardship and uncertainty brought on by this shutdown. This is a good thing.\n\n\u201cIf we want to prevent something like this from happening in the future, we cannot forget how we got here. Democrats voted for more than 6 weeks\u2014that\u2019s 42 days or 1008 hours\u2014to keep our government closed while Americans suffered. And for what? We are functionally very near where we would have been had we passed the House\u2019s September CR.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud that I cast my vote to keep the government open then and now. Let this saga be a stark reminder of the consequences of brinksmanship and the real damage that\u2019s done when one side of the aisle puts politics before people. Now, it\u2019s time for Congress to pass our remaining appropriations bills and return to regular order.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"], ["https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/shutdown-over-zinke-votes-reopen-government-delivers-over-11-million-direct", "SHUTDOWN OVER! Zinke Votes to Reopen the Government, Delivers Over $1.1 Million in Direct Funding to Montana Projects", "2025-11-12", "2025", "2025-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Ryan K. Zinke", "Z000018", "zinke.house.gov", "zinke", "https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke voted for H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026, which ends the 43-day Democrat started government shutdown, funds the government through January 30, 2026, and provides full fiscal year funding for the Departments of Agriculture and Veterans Affairs. Zinke had voted to prevent the shutdown in September. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Zinke helped craft these bills and secured key Montana wins within them. With passage in both the House and Senate, the bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk for his signature.\n\n\u201cShutdowns are bad for America and bad for Montana. I voted to prevent this shutdown in September, and I gladly voted to end it today,\u201d said Zinke. \u201cThis package is a good, bipartisan, solution, and I fought to make sure it includes real wins for our state, from funding fire departments in Ronan and Powell County to providing certainty for rural communities that depend on reliable government services. Congress has come together, and I urge the President to sign this bill so we can keep our government open and get back to working for the American people.\u201d\n\nMontana Wins in the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026\n\nAgriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies\n\nZinke\u2019s request for Montana Community Projects\n\n$554,969 for Powell County Volunteer Fire Department equipment.\n\n$547,500 for a new Type 1 fire truck for the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department.\n\nIncludes Zinke\u2019s request for a $500,000 increase for grasshopper control and suppression efforts\n\nExpands research to combat invasive species, pests, and livestock diseases.\n\n$4.1 billion for programs supporting housing, utilities, and infrastructure in rural America.\n\n$37.84 billion for national school lunch, breakfast, and summer food programs.\n\nStrengthens oversight of foreign ownership of farmland by improving tracking and adding the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to review agricultural transactions involving China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.\n\nMilitary Construction and Veterans Affairs\n\nFully funds veterans\u2019 health care, benefits, and VA programs.\n\nSupports President Trump\u2019s initiative to combat veteran homelessness through the new National Center for Warrior Independence.\n\nProtects Second Amendment rights of veterans by requiring judicial consent before VA information is shared with the FBI.\n\nProvides $19.7 billion for Department of Defense military construction and family housing.\n\nIncludes Zinke\u2019s language to continue protecting Montana air ambulances.\n\nIncludes Zinke\u2019s bill to reinstate the \u201cFlowers for Fallen Heroes\u201d program.\n\nLegislative Branch\n\nRequires unspent congressional office funds to go toward debt and deficit reduction.\n\nProhibits the purchase of technology and telecommunications equipment from China and other adversaries.\n\nIncreases funding for U.S. Capitol Police officers and civilian support staff.\n\nCongressman Zinke remained a strong advocate for reopening the government after his first vote to prevent the shutdown in September. While many Senate Democrats continued to block efforts to reopen, Zinke worked directly with county commissioners, tribal leaders, and local officials to help Montanans weather the operational strain caused by the closure. During the shutdown, he even volunteered in Yellowstone National Park to help rangers clean and maintain facilities so visitors could continue to enjoy the park.\n\nThe Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 has now passed both chambers of Congress and will soon head to the President\u2019s desk for his signature. Once signed, the government will officially reopen, paychecks will resume for federal workers, and programs supporting veterans, farmers, and small businesses will be fully operational. Congressman Zinke remains committed to passing the remaining seven Appropriations Bills out of the House and seeing them signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:52:45Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 2872, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"party\" = :p1 and \"state\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "Republican", "p2": "MT"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": 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