{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"MT\" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/slate-of-energy-job-bills-championed-by-daines-signed-into-law", "Slate of Energy Job Bills Championed by Daines Signed into Law", "2020-12-30", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.30.20\n\t\t\t Slate of Energy Job Bills Championed by Daines Signed into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATELast Sunday, four bipartisan energy bills, as well as a tax extension for carbon capture, championed by Senator Steve Daines were signed into law. The bipartisan bills, the EFFECT Act,American Mineral Security Act, Public Lands Renewable Energy Development Act, and USE It Act, all help protect Montana energy jobs and support Montana's energy industry.\r\nThese bipartisan bills will help create and protect Montana energy jobs, promote renewable energy on public lands,and provide reliable, affordable energy to all Montanans, Daines said.I'm glad to have worked across the aisle to accomplish thesemajor wins for Montana's energy industry.\r\nSupporting Montana energy jobs has been a top priority forSenatorDaines. He is committed to creating more jobs in this industry and ensuring all Montanans have access to theseresources.\r\nBackground:\r\nEFFECT Act: The bill updates Department of Energy (DOE) authorities that enable carbon capture storage and utilization investment on existing coal and gas facilities, such as the Colstrip Power Plant.\r\nAmerican Mineral Security Act: This bill promotes the research and development of critical minerals which serve as an essential function to the manufacturing of energy, defense, currency, agriculture, health care, and electronic products and whose absence of which would have an impact on the economic or national security of the US.It will also direct the Secretary of Energy and the Secretary of the Interior to jointly operate a program to design more efficient methods to extract, refine, and recycle critical materials. Additionally, it requires the Department of the Interior to designate and publish a list of critical minerals and work with states to conduct resource assessments to identify deposits of critical minerals.\r\nPublic Lands Renewable Energy Development Act: This bill creates and protects jobs in the energy sector. Itwill help increase renewable energy development on federal lands and expand associated economic benefits to local communities by developing a streamlined permitting process that will drive investment and development of renewable sources.\r\nUse It Act: This bill supports carbon capture, utilization and sequestration research by creating a program for the research, development and commercialization of direct air carbon capture.\r\nA two-year extension of 45Q tax credit for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage: This willmove the expiration of the tax credit from December 2023 to December 2025. This will provide much-needed certainty to producers and developers who are still awaiting needed regulations from the U.S. Department of the Treasury to take advantage of this credit.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-bill-providing-permanent-tax-relief-for-montana-breweries-distilleries-signed-into-law", "Daines Bill Providing Permanent Tax Relief for Montana Breweries, Distilleries Signed Into Law", "2020-12-29", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.29.20\n\t\t\t Daines Bill Providing Permanent Tax Relief for Montana Breweries, Distilleries Signed Into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines' bill will help create jobs in Montana, support Montana farmers\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines' bipartisan bill supporting Montana breweries and distilleries across the state was recently signed into law. Daines' bill, the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act, provides permanent tax relief for small craft breweries and distilleries, supporting jobs across Montana.\r\nIn Montana, we're home to some of the best craft breweries in the country. Now, with my bipartisan bill being signed into law, these small businesses will have permanent tax relief which will create jobs across Montana and support our Montana barley growers,Daines said.\r\nDaines' bill makes the excise tax relief enacted by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent for small craft breweries at $3.50 per barrel on the first 60,000 barrels, and $16 per barrel thereafter up to 2,000,000 barrels. This bill also expands the wine producer tax credit and establishes reduced excise taxes for craft distilleries.\r\nBackground:\r\nIn December, Daines sent a letter urging Senate leadership to pass this legislation.\r\nDainessupporteda similar provision in the 2017Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\r\nIn February of 2018, Dainescompleteda four-day tour across Montana to see the benefits firsthand of these tax credits on Montana's breweries.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-montana-leaders-praise-montana-water-rights-protection-act-being-signed-into-law", "What They Are Saying: Montana Leaders Praise Montana Water Rights Protection Act Being Signed into Law", "2020-12-29", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.29.20\n\t\t\t What They Are Saying: Montana Leaders Praise Montana Water Rights Protection Act Being Signed into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  On Sunday, U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester celebrated their bipartisan bill, the Montana Water Rights Protection Act, being signed into law by President Trump. The bill permanently settles the century long CSKT water dispute, supports Montana jobs, saves taxpayer dollars, modernizes rural infrastructure and protects the water rights of all Montanans. Several Montana leaders issued statements in support following the President's signing of this critical legislation.\r\nAfter years of effort, our bipartisan bill that settles the century long CSKT water dispute is now law. This is a huge win for all Montanans. Our bill protects the water rights of all Montanans, saves taxpayer dollars, createsjobs, modernizes rural infrastructure, protects Montana agriculture and prevents costly litigation. I'm very glad I could play a direct role in getting this done, and I thank President Trump for signing our bill into law.  Daines' statement following the signing\r\nToday is a historic day for Montana taxpayers, ranchers, farmers, and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Water is life, and the Compact honors our trust responsibilities, creates jobs, and prevents decades of costly litigation while investing in infrastructure and providing certainty to water users everywhere. I am proud to have led the effort to get this Compact signed into law, and I will continue working with the Tribes and water users to hold the government accountable and ensure it is implemented quickly and effectively.  Tester's statement following the signing\r\nThis law is a win for all Montanans. Our farmers, ranchers, the Salish and Kootenai tribes, and all water users across the state will now have the certainty they need. Thank you President Trump and my colleaguesin the Senate for getting this across the finish line.  Congressman Gianforte's statement following the signing\r\nStatements of Support:\r\nI cannot express how much we appreciate the hard work that the Montana Congressional Delegation put into this bill and now having it signed into law. From Senator Tester's initial introduction of the bill four years ago, to Senator Daines' introduction, amendments and work with the Trump Administration this year and to both of our Senators urging their respective leaders to include the bill in the omnibus appropriations bill, and to Congressman Gianforte's work with the Minority Leader in the House, all played pivotal roles and the residents of Montana should be thankful for their efforts. We certainly are grateful. We also express our appreciation to the many agriculture and conservation groups across Montana and even across the country who also helped advocate for passage of this truly historic and important bill. Shelly R. Fyant, Chairwoman, CSKT\r\nThank you to Senator Daines and Senator Tester for their leadership and continued perseverance for a permanent water settlement. An additional thanks goes to Representative Gianforte for his stewardship in the House. The success of Montana's agriculture industry is dependent upon water and water rights certainty. It is easily the single most important resource for people across Montana, which is why MSGA has long supported an agreement such as the Montana Water Rights Protection Act.  Jim Steinbeisser, President, Montana Stockgrowers Association The passage of the Compact will benefit all of Montana, while providing certainty and protecting senior municipal water rights for many of our members.  Tim Burton, Executive Director, Montana League of Cities and Towns\r\nThe passage of the Montana Water Rights Protection Act is great news for Montana. The legislation is a product of decades of negotiation and will settle farmers and ranchers water rights as far east as the Milk, Musselshell and Yellowstone rivers. This bipartisan bill and settlement is a good-faith compromise that will bring final resolution to a century-long water dispute, avoiding years of costly litigation. We especially want to thank bill sponsor Senator Steve Daines for all of his hard and also thank Senator Tester for co-sponsoring this legislation.  John Youngberg, Executive Vice President, Montana Farm Bureau Federation\r\nPassage of the Montana Water Right Protection Act provides for settlement of the Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes water right claims that are crucial to providing certainty regarding adjudication of Montana water rights. Passage of this important settlement legislation will prevent costly litigation, protect water rights throughout Montana, and very importantly, recognize and protect Montana's primacy over our water resources. We extend our appreciation to Senator Steve Daines, Senator Jon Tester, and Congressman Greg Gianforte for their support and efforts to enable passage of this important legislation.  Mike Murphy, Executive Director, Montana Water Resources Association We appreciate the work and time that both Senator Daines and Senator Tester have put into the passage of this agreement. Without their steadfast support for Montana water users, Montana's agriculture industry would have taken over a billion dollar hit at a time when they could afford it the least. Our Senators have put in place an agreement that will ensure the future of agriculture in our state and protect our water resources for generations to come, while investing in Montana's economy and saving our taxpayers, farmers, and ranchers millions of dollars.  Tom Beck, Co-Chair, Farmers & Ranchers for Montana (FARM) On behalf of the Association of Gallatin Agricultural Irrigators (AGAI), I wish to express our enthusiastic appreciation for the passage of the Montana Water Rights Protection Act. Senator Daines' continual work and \"never say never\" attitude will be enjoyed by many of us here at home. Senator Daines understands the value in this equitable solution, but rest assured the irrigators in the Gallatin Valley will be able to tell the story of a Montana solution that kept agriculture alive and focused on daily chores for generations rather than looking back on the dark days of litigation, telling the story of lost opportunities. From our 400+ irrigating members, THANK YOU, for a well-fought, positive outcome from Washington D.C., proving Montana's work ethic value.  Walt Sales, President, Association of Gallatin Agricultural Irrigators On behalf of the Montana Agricultural Business Association, I am more than excited to hear of the passing of the CSKT Compact by Congress. This is a logical solution that protects access to farmers' and ranchers' most limiting resource - water. We thank those who put in a tremendous amount of work in a bipartisan way to see this through to fruition and protect Montana's vital agriculture community.  Luke Dighans, President, Montana Agricultural Business Association\r\nSenator Daines was the only public official that dug down into understanding what the CKST water compact really did to off reservation water users. He asked questions and listened to Montana ranchers and farmers. Senator Daines rewrote the bill doing the very best he could to protect our property rights and respect hundreds of years of water rights in Montana. Thank you Senator Daines for your leadership. We grateful to have you as a public servant to who works for ALL of us.  Bill Slaughter, Commissioner, Granite County\r\nI am pleased this has been resolved. Montana irrigators can breathe a gigantic sigh of relief now that this is done. Thank you Senator Daines for all your work on accomplishing this compact. This is the seventh and final compact in Montana. It's not a question of having one, it is a question of having what's in it and getting it done. I am very pleased with Senator Daines and so appreciate his leadership on this issue.  Fred Thomas, Former State Legislator", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-tester-bipartisan-bill-settling-century-long-montana-water-dispute-signed-into-law", "Daines, Tester Bipartisan Bill Settling Century Long Montana Water Dispute Signed Into Law", "2020-12-27", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.27.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Tester Bipartisan Bill Settling Century Long Montana Water Dispute Signed Into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester today celebrated their bipartisan bill, the Montana Water Rights Protection Act, being signed into law by President Trump. The bill permanently settles the century long CSKT water dispute, supports Montana jobs, modernizes rural infrastructure and protects the water rights of all Montanans.\r\nAfter years of a lot of effort, our bipartisan bill that settles the century long CSKT water dispute is now law, Daines said. This is a huge win for all Montanans. Our bill protects the water rights of all Montanans, saves taxpayer dollars, createsjobs, modernizes rural infrastructure, protects Montana agriculture and prevents costly litigation. I'm very glad I could play a direct role in getting this done, and I thank President Trump for signing our bill into law.\r\nToday is a historic day for Montana taxpayers, ranchers, farmers, and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes,Tester said.Water is life, and the Compact honors our trust responsibilities, creates jobs, and prevents decades of costly litigation while investing in infrastructure and providing certainty to water users everywhere. I am proud to have led the effort to get this Compact signed into law, and I will continue working with the Tribes and water users to hold the government accountable and ensure it is implemented quickly and effectively.\r\nThis law is a win for all Montanans. Our farmers, ranchers, the Salish and Kootenai tribes, and all water users across the state will now have the certainty they need, Congressman Greg Gianforte said. Thank you President Trump and my colleaguesin the Senate for getting this across the finish line.\r\nFor more background on the Montana Water Rights Protection Act,clickHERE and HERE.\r\nBack in June,in a U.S Senate hearing, the Trump administration expressed support for the bipartisan bill with the Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary Tim Petty discussing the benefits of the bill, including job creation and modernizing infrastructure needs.\r\nWithout the efforts of Senator Daines and Senator Tester, Montana's agriculture economy would face a $1.3 billion hit. Thousands of Montanans would be forced to litigate their water rights causing a substantial uncertainty for Montana's farmers and ranchers.\r\nFor more information on Daines' efforts related to the Montana Water Rights Protection Act,\" clickHERE. For more information on Tester's efforts related to the legislation, click HERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-delivers-big-wins-for-national-defense-troops-veterans", "Daines Delivers Big Wins for National Defense, Troops, Veterans", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.20\n\t\t\t Daines Delivers Big Wins for National Defense, Troops, Veterans \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines yesterday voted to support and fund several critical defense and veterans priorities.\r\nThis critical funding ensures America maintains the best military in the world, gives our troops a much needed pay raise, provides support for Montana veterans and strengthens Montana's defense priorities, Daines said.\r\n\r\nStrengthens Montana's and the Nation's Defense Forces:\r\n \r\n$180 million for Air Force C-130 propeller upgrades (4-blade to 8-blade)\r\n$368 million for Army's CH-47 Chinook helicopters\r\n$923.4 million for National Guard Counter-Drug Program, which includes an increase of $100 million for the National Guard State Plans program and $20 million for the National Guard Counter-Drug schools program\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Veterans: \r\n \r\n$10.3 billion for Montana veterans mental health care\r\n\r\n$312 million for suicide prevention outreach\r\n\r\n\r\nSupports the request for medical care accounts, including amounts supporting VA MISSION Act programs.\r\n$300 million for VA Office of Rural Health and the Rural Health Initiative to overcome barriers to access in large rural states.\r\n$5 million for pilot program in agritherapy to train veterans in agricultural vocations in no less than three locations\r\n$661 million for women's health care\r\nProvides $2.6 billion for Electronic Health Record Modernization\r\nProvides $1.9 billion for Montana veteran homeless assistance programs\r\n \r\nSupports Military Research at Montana Universities and Small Businesses: \r\n \r\n$20 Million for Lightweight Composite Barrel research (Proof Research in Columbia Falls)\r\n$15 Million for Language Training Centers with report language at University of Montana (UM)\r\n$5 Million for Warfighter Physiology Research with report language at UM\r\n$5 Million for Hearing restoration research with report language at UM\r\n$4 Million for TechLink at Montana State University (MSU)\r\n$3 Million for MilTech at MSU\r\n$10 Million for Extreme Battery research at MSU\r\n$7 Million for Quantum cryptography research at MSU\r\n$3 Million for Department of Defense Partnership Intermediary Assistance to Marine Corps Warfighting Lab at MSU\r\n \r\nSupports Military Youth Programs:\r\n \r\n$75 Million for National Guard Youth Challenge\r\n$4.3 Million for Naval Sea Cadet youth programs\r\n$22.8 Million for Civil Air Patrol youth programs\r\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-leahy-bipartisan-bill-promoting-affordable-health-insurance-passes-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk-", "Daines, Leahy Bipartisan Bill Promoting Affordable Health Insurance Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.22.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Leahy Bipartisan Bill Promoting Affordable Health Insurance Passes Senate, Heads to President's Desk  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill prevents health insurance companies from price fixing, collusion\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S.Senators Steve Daines (Mont.) and Patrick Leahy (Vt.) announced that their bipartisan bill promoting access to affordable health care by increasing transparency and enhancing consumer protections in the health insurance passed the U.S. Senate and will be headed to the President's desk to be signed into law. The Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act willensure that health insurance issuers are subject to the same federal antitrust laws prohibiting unfair trade practices, such as price fixing and collusion, as virtually every other industry in our economy.\r\nOur bipartisan bill will allow for greater transparency and oversight into the health insurance industry and help make health insurance more affordable for Montanans and Americans across the country. I look forward to this commonsense bill being signed into law, Daines said. \r\nWhile ordinary Americans are suffering through an unprecedented, deadly pandemic, multi-billion dollar health insurance companies are boasting record-high profits. It makes little sense that these powerful actors should also benefit from an antiquated exemption allowing them to evade all scrutiny and oversight by our federal antitrust authorities. Our overwhelmingly bipartisan bill would simply subject health insurance providers to our federal antitrust laws  just like every other sector of the American economy. It's a commonsense bill whose time has come, and I hope President Trump swiftly signs it into law, Leahy said.\r\nThe bipartisan billamends the McCarran-Ferguson Act to restore the application of federal antitrust laws to the health insurance industry, but does not otherwise interfere with or impact the authority of state authorities to regulate health insurance provided under the act. This bill will help address instances of artificially higher premiums, unfair insurance restrictions, and harmful policy exclusions.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn February 19th, 2019, Senators Steve Daines and Patrick Leahyintroduced the bipartisanlegislation.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-delivers-targeted-covid-19-relief-for-montana", "Daines Delivers Targeted COVID-19 Relief for Montana", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.20\n\t\t\t Daines Delivers Targeted COVID-19 Relief for Montana \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Critical aid for Montana small businesses, workers, families, healthcare heroes, hospitals and vaccine distribution\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today voted for aCOVID-19 relief package to help supportMontana small businesses, workers, families, schools, Tribes, and farmers and ranchers impacted by the pandemic. The relief package also includes nearly $20 billion for COVID-19 vaccine distribution.\r\n\r\n\r\nTo download the full statement, click HERE.\r\n\"This bipartisan targeted COVID-19 relief package is going to help Montana small businesses, workers, families, healthcare heroes, schools, Tribes and farmers and ranchers. It also provides billions of dollars for vaccine manufacturing and distribution which is critical to ending this pandemic once and for all. This has been a tough year for all Montanans, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. We will get through this, Daines said.\r\nFor a topline list of provisions the Senator fought to have included, click HERE.\r\nSupports Montana Small Businesses and Jobs:\r\n \r\nProvides more than $300 billion for small businesses, including $284 billion to replenish the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help keep Montana small businesses open and workers on the payroll. The PPP has helped nearly 24,000 small businesses in Montana, providing close to $1.8 billion.\r\n\r\nExpands PPP eligibility to include certain 501(c)(6) organizations. This includesMontana local organizations, including Chambers of Commerce, Destination Marketing Organizations, and Outdoor Recreation Organizations with 300 or fewer employees.This is something Daines specifically worked to include.\r\n\r\n\r\nProvides $20 billion for Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) advance grants.\r\nIncludes Daines' EIDL Forgiveness Act, which eliminates the requirement that PPP borrowers deduct the amount of their EIDL advance from their PPP forgiveness amount.\r\nIncludes the Save our Stages Act, which provides $15 billion for live venues and independent movie theaters. This was a priority for businesses across Montana, and Daines worked to get this included.\r\nExtends the SBA Debt Relief program, providing three months of additional principal and interest payments for all SBA borrowers, starting in February 2021.\r\nIncludes Daines' bipartisan bill, the \"Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act,\" which provides tax certainty for Montana breweries and distilleries, helping protect and create jobs across Montana.\r\nFive year extension of New Markets Tax Credit, a program which has mobilized private-sector resources to help deliver over $400 million in total project financing across Montana like the new Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) facility being constructed in Missoula that Daines visited in August.\r\nEnhances and extends the Employee Retention Tax Credit through June 30, 2021, which will help employers keep their employees on the job. Daines pushed for this targeted, worker-focused credit to be expanded during a June 2020 Finance Committee hearing.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Families and Workers:\r\n \r\nProvides up to a $600 direct check per Montanan and child dependent.\r\nProvides $300 per week of supplemental unemployment insurance for Montanans who lost their jobs at no fault of their own. This is in addition to what an individual receives from the state's unemployment insurance.\r\n\r\n$300 supplement lasts for 10 weeks (December 26, 2020  March 14, 2021).\r\nExtends unemployment program for self-employed and gig workers to March 14, 2021 and increases the maximum number of weeks an individual may claim from 39 to 50.\r\nExtends relief for government and non-profit employees through March 14, 2021.\r\nExtends the authorization for enhanced unemployment benefits for those covered under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nPrioritizes COVID-19 Vaccines, Therapeutic Drugs & Testing:\r\n \r\nProvides $8.75 billion to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to promote, distribute, administer, monitor, and track COVID-19 vaccines to ensure broad-based distribution, access, and coverage for Montanans and all Americans. In November, Daines called on the CDC to ensure Montanans across the state, including those in rural communities, get access to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible.\r\nProvides $19.695 billion to continue supporting critical efforts to ensure Americans receive vaccines and therapeutics. Senator Daines has been a leader in the Senate to advocate for vaccine funding. Back in March, Senator Daines secured funding that jumpstarted Operation Warp Speed, the unprecedented effort to develop and distribute COVID-19 vaccines in record time. \r\n$22.4 billion is provided to states, localities, territories, and tribes for testing, contact tracing, and mitigation to monitor and combat the coronavirus. It will help also ensure Montanans can continue to get tests, and that test results are made available as quickly as possible.\r\nProvides the National Institutes of Health with $1.15 billion for research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 and $100 million to support the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics program to speed the development and commercialization of COVID-19 diagnostic tests.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana's Hospitals and Providers, Bolsters Rural Health Care Delivery, Expands Telehealth:\r\n \r\nIncludes $3 billion for the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) to support Montana's hospitals and health care providers.\r\n\r\nLanguage is included directing 85% of unobligated balances or funds recovered to be for future distributions. Language is also included clarifying the definition of lost revenue for hospitals and allows hospital systems to transfer COVID funds among hospitals in their system.\r\n\r\n\r\nEstablishes a new, voluntary Rural Emergency Hospital designation offering financial support to struggling rural hospitals that can no longer support inpatient services and want to right-size their health care infrastructure to better align with community needs.\r\nInvests $3 billion to increase payments to all physicians and professionals for all services by 3.75 percent throughout 2021.\r\nProvides $3.25 billion to secure PPE and other supplies to support availability during the pandemic.\r\nEliminates Medicare restrictions to allow all beneficiaries to receive mental health services through telehealth on a permanent basis\r\nPromotes use of real-time benefit tools in Medicare that enable physicians to work with beneficiaries to find the lowest cost prescription drug at the time of prescribing.\r\nExtends the moratorium on the Medicare sequester set to expire on December 31, 2020, increasing payment to all providers by 2 percent for first three months of 2021. \r\n \r\nAddresses Substance Abuse and Mental Health:\r\n \r\nProvides $4.25 billion for substance abuse and mental health treatment and prevention. This includes robust investments in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention block grants. The bill also invests in suicide prevention, Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, and targets funding to individual behavioral health providers.\r\n \r\nSupports Child Care Providers:\r\n \r\n$10 billion to provide additional assistance Montana's working families, and support child care providers experiencing increased operating expenses and decreased revenue related to COVID-19. Daines has been working on providing relief to childcare providers during the pandemic.\r\n \r\nProvides Funding for Schools, Teachers &Students Navigating COVID-19:\r\n \r\n$82 billion to support Montanastudents, teachers, schools, and families with additional education needs related to COVID-19.\r\n \r\nSupports the United States Postal Service\r\n \r\nConverts unused $10 billion loan for USPS into a grant.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Farmers and Ranchers\r\n \r\nProvides $13 billion of additional funds for agriculture and to assist farmers and ranchers negatively impacted by low commodity prices and supply chain challenges due to the pandemic.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Tribal Communities\r\n \r\nExtends the use for the Coronavirus Relief Fund through December of 2021 to ensure our tribal members have the time necessary to get access to the critical resources needed to keep their communities safe.\r\nProvides $210 million to Indian Health Services to prevent or slow the spread of COVID-19 in Indian Country through Indian Health Service, Tribal, and Urban Indian health programs.\r\nProvides $800 million for rental assistance for tribal members.\r\n \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-tester-bipartisan-bill-settling-century-long-montana-water-dispute-passes-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk", "Daines, Tester Bipartisan Bill Settling Century Long Montana Water Dispute Passes Senate, Heads to Presidents Desk", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Tester Bipartisan Bill Settling Century Long Montana Water Dispute Passes Senate, Heads to President's Desk \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S.Senators Steve Daines and Jon Testertoday celebratedSenate passage of their bipartisanbill, theMontana Water Rights Protection Act. The bill will permanentlysettle the century long CSKT water dispute, support Montana jobs, modernize rural infrastructure and protectthe water rights of allMontanans.\r\nAfter years of hard work, the U.S. Senate just passed our bipartisan bill that permanently resolves the century long CSKT water dispute, and will soon become law. Without our bill, thousands of Montanans would be forced into very expensive litigation and our ag economy would've taken over a one billion dollar hit,Daines said.That's why we've worked so hard to pass our bill that protects thewater rights of all Montanans, saves taxpayer dollars, createsjobs, modernizes rural infrastructure projects, protectsMontana agriculture and prevents verycostly litigation. This is a win for all Montanans.\r\nThis victory has been decades in the making, and is a huge win for Montana taxpayers, ranchers, farmers, and the Tribes,Tester said.Water is among our most valuable resources, and ratifying this Compacthonors our trust responsibilities,creates jobsandinvests ininfrastructure whileproviding certainty to water users everywhere. I'm thankful we were able to work togetherto get this critical legislationacross the finish line.\r\nI am glad we were able to get this done to bring certainty to Montana's farmers, ranchers, the Salish and Kootenai tribes, and all the water users across the state, Congressman Greg Gianforte said. Thank you to my colleagues in the Senate for their work on this legislation.\r\nI cannot express how much we appreciate the hard work that the Montana Congressional Delegation put into this bill and now having it signed into law. From Senator Tester's initial introduction of the bill four years ago, to Senator Daines' introduction, amendments and work with the Trump Administration this year and to both of our Senators urging their respective leaders to include the bill in the omnibus appropriations bill, and to Congressman Gianforte's work with the Minority Leader in the House, all played pivotal roles and the residents of Montana should be thankful for their efforts. We certainly are grateful. We also express our appreciation to the many agriculture and conservation groups across Montana and even across the country who also helped advocate for passage of this truly historic and important bill. Shelly R. Fyant, Chairwoman, CSKT\r\nThe billpassed the House of Representatives earlier today and will now head to thePresident's deskto be signed into law.\r\nFor more background on the Montana Water Rights Protection Act,clickHERE and HERE.\r\nBack in June,in a U.S Senate hearing, the Trump administration expressed support for the bipartisan bill with the Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary Tim Petty discussing the benefits of the bill, including job creation and modernizing infrastructure needs.\r\nWithout the efforts of Senator Daines and Senator Tester, Montana's agriculture economy would face a $1.3 billion hit. Thousands of Montanans would be forced to litigate their water rights causing a substantial uncertainty for Montana's farmers and ranchers.\r\nFor more information on Daines' efforts related to the Montana Water Rights Protection Act,\" clickHERE. For more information on Tester's efforts related to the legislation, click HERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/second-covid-19-vaccine-given-green-light-major-credit-given-to-daines", "Second COVID-19 Vaccine Given Green Light, Major Credit Given to Daines", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.18.20\n\t\t\t Second COVID-19 Vaccine Given Green Light, Major Credit Given to Daines \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  Today, a second COVID-19 vaccine received emergency use authorization from theFood and Drug Administration (FDA). The vaccine,made byModerna,will be distributed immediately. The accelerated development and delivery of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine was made possible as a result of Daines securing an initial $10 billion in the CARES Act in March to enable vaccine manufacturing and clinical trials to proceed simultaneously.\r\nWhen the pandemic hit, I used my background as a chemical engineer as well as my experience in the private sector working with FDA regulated products to work with our top researchers, top scientists and our top innovators on what we needed to do to get a COVID-19 vaccine into the hands of the American people as quickly and safely as possible. That turned into securing $10 billion to accelerate the development and the manufacturing as well as distribution of a vaccine, Daines said. Now, we have a second vaccine approved, and there's more to come. A vaccine is what will save lives, get our economy going again, get our lives back to normal and stop the pandemic. I'm very glad to have led the work in the U.S. Senate to help get us where we are today.\r\nStphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna gave credit to Daines for their vaccine being developed, manufactured and approved.\r\nI want to personally thank Senator Steve Daines for his early leadership and support for the CARES Act which enabled BARDA and Operation Warp Speed to accelerate our progress to this point. I am grateful for his full commitment in this fight against covid-19 through scientific innovation.\r\nSenator Roy Blunt,Chairman of the Senate Appropriations SubcommitteeonLabor, Health and Human Services, and Education, today also gave credit Daines for his work to help accelerate the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines.\r\nSenator Daines took his background in manufacturing and business and was instrumental in advocating for a more aggressive way to use our investment toward vaccine development and production. This includes his support for the simultaneous research and development of a vaccine, which was a significant step toward vaccines being available for the American public in under one year. Senator Daines was a key factor in that discussion.\r\nIn March, Daines secured $10 billionto accelerate the research, development, manufacturing and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics, which helped jumpstart Operation Warp Speed.Topresearchers, scientists and administration officials havetouted the Senator's work.\r\nMontana is expected to receive a second round shipment of vaccines this month that will contain both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. The second round allocation will focus on rural hospitals and skilled nursing facilities.\r\nIn November, Daines called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure Montanans across the state, including those in rural communities, get access to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible.\r\nDaines does not believe in mandating the vaccine, however, he encouragesindividualsto take it onceavailablein consultationwith their doctor.\r\nIn early December, Daines was asked to join the COVID-19 Vaccine Summit at the White House because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeuticdrugs under OWS.\r\nDaines and his wife areparticipatingin Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial, where they'releading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-stabenow-grassley-wyden-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-end-abuse-of-conservation-easements", "Daines, Stabenow, Grassley, Wyden Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to End Abuse of Conservation Easements", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.16.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Stabenow, Grassley, Wyden Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to End Abuse of Conservation Easements \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill protects program that promotes conservation, stops scam artists from ripping off American taxpayers\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE  U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Senate Finance Committee ChairmanChuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senate Finance Committee Ranking MemberRon Wyden (D-Ore.) reintroduced abipartisan bill, theCharitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act,tostop the abuse ofconservation easements, save taxpayers billions of dollars andpromote conservation in the U.S.\r\nOur bipartisan bill will promote conservation in Montana, save taxpayers billions of dollars and stop scam artists from abusing a critical conservation program used across the country, Daines said. This will helpprotect Montana farmers and ranchers who want toconserve ourlands, and hold individualsaccountable who arelooking to game the system and pad their own wallets. It's time to pass this commonsense bipartisan bill.\r\nOur bill preserves the integrity of the conservation easement program which plays an important role in protecting family farms, open land, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities across Michigan and our country. Republicans and Democrats came together to end this abuse and save taxpayer money, Stabenow said.\r\nThe conservation easement program is an important tool for protecting and preserving our environment. But bad-faith scammers have taken advantage of the program through abusive schemes at the expense of American taxpayer. I investigated the growing number of these scams, and it's clear that they won't stop without legislative action. I'm glad to join Sen. Daines once again in introducing legislation that would stop these scams from undermining the good work of farmers, ranchers and conservationists, Grassley said.\r\nAbuse of syndicated conservation easements by some bad actors is one of the most egregious tax shelters out there. Our bill would ensure IRS has the tools to crack down on these transactions. IRS has been battling these scams for years, and our bipartisan Finance Committee report exposed their fraudulent nature in detail. There's broad, bipartisan agreement on our bill, and Congress should pass it before we adjourn, Wyden said.\r\nDespite increased enforcement from the IRS, recent IRS data shows the total amount of deductions claimed through these tax shelters increased from $6.8 billion in 2017 to $9.2 billion in 2018.\r\nThe Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act,whichtracks an IRS Listing Notice published in December 2016, would generally disallow a charitable deduction if it exceeds 2.5 times (250%) of a partner's original investment. The updated bill includes language concerning historic preservation deals, which are often more complicated and subject to greater oversight. The bill preserves this deduction for people with true charity and conservation in mind, including for family farms and ranches.\r\nTo read the bill text, click HERE.\r\nOrganizations that support this bipartisan legislation include: the Land Trust Alliance, Ducks Unlimited, The Nature Conservancy, American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, The Appraisal Institute, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, The Conservation Fund, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, the Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, Trust for Public Land, Pheasants Forever, and Quail Forever.\r\nBackground:\r\nIn late August, Daines renewed efforts to advance his bipartisan bill following the conclusion of a U.S. Senate Finance Committee investigation into abusive syndicated conservation easements. This updated legislation is the product of months of discussions with the Joint Committee on Taxation and stakeholders on how to ensure that the bill closes all loopholes that fraudsters might find to get around the new requirements.\r\nOn August 25th, 2020, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Grassley and Ranking Member Ron Wyden of Oregon released a bipartisan report on their 16-month investigation into the abuse of syndicated conservation-easement transactions.\r\nOn June 30th, 2020, Daines asked IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig about the importance of passing his bipartisan Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act in a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing.\r\nOn January 17th, 2019, Daines introduced the bipartisan Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act of 2019, a bill that would curb abuses of the popular conservation easement tax benefit while allowing it to continue to serve as an important tool for conserving land and protecting family farms and ranches.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-first-covid-19-vaccine-delivery-to-montana", "Daines Statement on First COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery to Montana", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on First COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery to Montana \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines released the following statementfollowing the first delivery of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to Montana:\r\nToday, the first COVID-19 vaccine was delivered to Montana and administered in the U.S. This day would not have beenpossible without American innovation, Operation Warp Speed, and the dedication from top scientists and theTrump administration, Daines said. I'm proud to have secured the initial$10 billion that helped make this modern medical miracle possible, and I will continue working to ensure allMontana communitiesget access.\r\nMontana is expected to receive an estimated first dose allocation of 9,750 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines. The second round of doses are expected to be provided to the state in a separate shipment before the second dose schedule, which is 21 days after the first.\r\nDaines wasinstrumentalin securing the initial $10 billion for the research, development, manufacturing and distribution ofCOVID-19vaccines and therapeutics under Operation Warp Speed(OWS) - with topresearchers, scientists and administration officialstouting the Senator's work.\r\nOn March 22nd, theBillings Gazette reported: Daines Proposes $10 Billion to Pay for Early Manufacture of Coronavirus Drugs. Soon after, President Trumppraised Senator Daines for his worksecuring this funding and for prioritizing vaccine development saying, He's been right at the forefront.\r\nJust last week, Daines was asked to join the COVID-19 Vaccine Summit at the White House because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeuticdrugs under OWS.\r\nDaines and his wife are alsoparticipatingin Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial, where they'releading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine.\r\nBackground: \r\nA second COVID-19 vaccine, made by Moderna, is awaiting approval by the FDA. On December 17, 2020, the FDA will be meeting to discuss emergency use authorization of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-helps-secure-51-million-grant-for-plains-infrastructure-project-", "Daines Helps Secure $5.1 Million Grant for Plains Infrastructure Project", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.20\n\t\t\t Daines Helps Secure $5.1 Million Grant for Plains Infrastructure Project  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that following his direct request, Plains, Montana will receive a $5,148,500 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant will help complete a major infrastructure project for the community by relocating the city's wastewater treatment plant, which is currently at risk of a catastrophic failure due to its vicinity to the Clark Fork River.\r\nThis grant is a critical investment for the Plains community as they work to improve their sanitation infrastructure by moving the wastewater treatment plant away from the Clark Fork River, Daines said. I'm glad that I could help secure this funding for the community and look forward to seeing the progress on the relocation project.\r\nBack in January, Daines wrote a letter in support of the Plains communities' grant request.\r\nMayor Dan Rowan thanked Daines for his help to secure the grant.\r\nThis is fantastic news for our community. This grant will allow us to move our wastewater treatment facility, protect the Clark Fork River, and save our ratepayers millions of dollars. The Town of Plains thanks Senator Daines for his strong support and helping us secure these funds.  Dan Rowan, Mayor, Town of Plains\r\nThe wastewater treatment plant is at imminent risk of a catastrophic failure from erosion due to long term flooding from the Clark Fork River. The existing wastewater treatment plant has four lagoons and an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system; it will be demolished, and new lagoons and UV disinfection will be installed outside of the flood plain.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-montana-defense-priorities-in-final-defense-bill-passes-out-of-senate", "Daines Secures Montana Defense Priorities in Final Defense Bill, Passes out of Senate", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures Montana Defense Priorities in Final Defense Bill, Passes out of Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today voted for severalMontanapriorities in the final defense bill known as theNational Defense Authorization Act or the\"NDAA,\"including a 3% pay raise for troops,support for Malmstrom Air Force Base andMontana's Guard Units and help for veterans exposed to Agent Orange.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor a statement from Daines, click HERE.\r\nFor TV Elements, click HERE.\r\nThisbipartisandefense bill ensures America maintains the best military in the world, strengthens Montana's defense priorities and gives ourtroops a much needed pay raise,Daines said.I will always work to ensure our troops and veterans who served our country have the support they need.\r\nThe NDAAprovides a 3% pay raise,increases hazardous duty pay, provides reserve relief for troops, strengthens our national security by modernizing Malmstrom and the nuclear arsenal and helps combat infiltration from China.\r\nDaines was also supportive of several critical amendments, including the Agent Orange amendmentthat addsmore medical conditions covered by the VA for Vietnam veterans impacted by Agent Orange. He also supported an amendment that setsa minimum C-130 inventory of 287 aircraft, preserving the Montana Air National Guard's fleet.\r\nMontana Defense Wins in the NDAA:\r\n \r\nAddresses limitations regarding Military Construction (MILCON) and Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) Launch Facilities. It will also allow the Secretary of Defense to use certain funds for MILCON projects related to modernizing missile silos and Missile Alert Facilities.\r\n \r\n \r\nGives a 3% pay increase for members of the military.\r\nProvides reserve retirement relief for service members affected by the COVID-19 stop movement order. This follows Daines' direct request.\r\nEstablishes a semiconductor incentive grant, to construct, expand or modernize facilities related to the production of semiconductors in the U.S. These grants would focus on producing microelectronics for use by the Department of Defense (DOD), intelligence community and other national security applications.\r\n$1.5 billion in full funding for GBSD which will strengthen our missile defense systems at Malmstrom.\r\n$194 million for Huey replacement, with Malmstrom the first ICBM base to receive upgraded versions.\r\n \r\n \r\nIncludes an amendment supported by Daines that adds three conditions (Parkinsonism, Bladder cancer, Hypothyroidism) to the list of Agent Orange related conditions.\r\n \r\n \r\nDaines amendment to allow free entry into parks for gold star families.\r\nAdopted a provision to set a minimum C-130 inventory of 287 aircraft following Daines' request.The original Senate bill set the number at 230, putting the Montana Air National Guard at risk.\r\n \r\nOther NDAA wins:\r\n \r\nPrioritizing Strategic Competition with China and Russia\r\n\r\nProtects the defense industrial base and supply chain, as well as intellectual property and technology, from disruption, infiltration, or theft by the Government of China and other adversaries\r\n\r\n\r\nCOVID Response\r\n\r\nAuthorizes $44 million for vaccine and biotechnology research supported by DOD.\r\n\r\n\r\nSupporting U.S. Heroes and Their Families\r\n \r\nPromotes professional development opportunities for military spouses by authorizing $4 million to assist with the development of interstate compacts on licensed occupations for military spouses.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/first-covid-19-vaccine-approved-for-emergency-use-distribution-to-begin", "First COVID-19 Vaccine Approved for Emergency Use, Distribution to Begin", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.11.20\n\t\t\t First COVID-19 Vaccine Approved for Emergency Use, Distribution to Begin \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  Today, the first COVID-19 vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency use. The vaccine, made by Pfizer, will be distributed immediately. Daines has been instrumental in the research, development, manufacturing and distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine, securing the initial $10 billion for Operation Warp Speed. Daines is also participating in Pfizer's vaccine trial as a way to help build confidence and trust for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should take it.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor a video statement from Daines, click HERE.\r\nTo be where we are today is truly remarkable. Thanks to American innovation, the first COVID-19 vaccine is approved for emergency use and ready for distribution. This will help save lives, support our healthcare heroes, protect jobs and rebuild our economy, Daines said. I'm glad to have led the fight in the Senate to prioritize a COVID-19 vaccine, and will continue working to ensure all Montana communities get access. There is finally light at the end of the tunnel.\r\nDaines does not believe in mandating the vaccine, however, he encouragesindividualsto take it onceavailablein consultationwith their doctor.\r\nMontana is expected to receive 9,750 doses of the Pfizer vaccine this month.\r\nA second COVID-19 vaccine, made by Moderna, is awaiting approval by the FDA. On December 17, 2020, the FDA will be meeting to discuss emergency use authorization of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine.\r\nDaines wasinstrumentalin securing funding for the research, development, manufacturing and distribution ofCOVID-19vaccines and therapeutics under Operation Warp Speed(OWS) - with topresearchers, scientists and administration officialstouting the Senator's work.\r\nEarlier this week, Daines was asked to join the COVID-19 Vaccine Summit at the White House because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeuticdrugs under OWS.\r\nDaines and his wife areparticipatingin Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial, where they'releading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine.\r\nIn November, Daines called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure Montanans across the state, including those in rural communities, get access to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-retirement-security-is-critical-for-montanans", "Daines: Retirement Security is Critical for Montanans", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.09.20\n\t\t\t Daines: Retirement Security is Critical for Montanans \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Urges passage of his bipartisan retirement security bill at Senate hearing\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE Today, at aU.S. Senate Finance Subcommittee hearing,U.S. Senator Steve Dainesstressed the importance of retirement security for Montanans. At the hearing, Daines urged passage of hisbipartisan retirement security bill, the Retirement Savings Lost and Found Act, to helpMontanans hold on to more of their hard-earned dollars and better prepare them for a peaceful retirement.\r\n\r\n\r\nTo download the Senator's opening remarks click, HERE.\r\nFor b-roll of the Senator on the hearing, click, HERE.\r\n\r\nMontanans and the American people work hard and save up for decades with the hope of achieving a peaceful retirement -a retirement where folks don't have to worry about outliving their savings, Daines said. But as Americans switch jobs at higher rates than ever before, they are often unknowingly leaving behind their retirement accounts. My bipartisanbill with Senator Warren solves this problem, ensuring people keep more of their hard earned money,by creating a national lost and found registry for retirement accountsThis bill is a win for Montana workers, families and businesses and must be passed into law.\r\nAs Americans leave jobs at a higher rate, a study by an investment management company showed that up to 30 percent of employees left behind some of their retirement savings when they switched jobs.\r\nDaines introduced his bipartisan legislation with Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). The bill would create a national lost and found registry for retirement accounts using data that employers are already required to report. This will allow former employees to use the online registry to find all of their former employer-sponsored retirement accounts, ensuring no dollar is left behind as they move from one job to the next.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\nOn July 2nd, 2020, Daines introduced his bipartisan Retirement Savings Lost and Found Actto modernize the retirement system to better protect Americans' hard earned savings.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-attends-white-house-covid-19-vaccine-summit", "Daines Attends White House COVID-19 Vaccine Summit", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines Attends White House COVID-19 Vaccine Summit \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines invited following months of work prioritizing COVID-19 vaccine development, manufacturing, distribution\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today was at the White House for theCOVID-19Vaccine Summit. Daineswas asked to join because of his work on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeuticdrugs under Operation Warp Speed (OWS). The Summit highlighted the success ofOWS,whichhas been critical in theaccelerated development, manufacturing, and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.\r\nTo download Daines' statement, clickHERE.\r\nJust finished up a great meeting with President Trump and his Operation Warp Speed team, this truly is remarkable that were going to have these vaccines available for Montanans and the American people before the end of the year. A job well done,Daines said.\r\nDaines wasinstrumentalin securing funding for the research, development and distribution ofCOVID-19vaccines and therapeutics under OWS- with topresearchers, scientists and administration officialstouting the Senator's work. Daines is alsoparticipatingin Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial, where he's leading by example for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should get the vaccine once it's approved.\r\nTo download Daines' selfie video before the event, clickHERE. ClickHEREfor his Twitter post.\r\nDuring the Summit, President Trump signed an Executive Order to prioritize Americans getting the vaccine.\r\nHEREis a photo the Senator took during the event.\r\nAt the Summit, theSenator joined President Trump, Vice President Pence, OWS leaders, Administration officials andleaders that will play a key role in the distribution of a vaccine once it's approved, including CVS, Walgreens,FedEx andUPS.\r\nA COVID-19 vaccine may receiveapproval asearly as this weekend.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-leads-bipartisan-call-for-congress-to-address-looming-medicare-cuts", "Daines Leads Bipartisan Call for Congress to Address Looming Medicare Cuts", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines Leads Bipartisan Call for Congress to Address Looming Medicare Cuts \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Cuts will strain health care system, cripple Montana health care providers amid pandemic\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines called on Senate leadership to ensure that any year-end legislative package address the decision by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to severely cut physician payments beginning January 1, 2021. Senator Daines, along with 49 Senate colleagues, stressed that these payment cuts would further strain our nation's health care system and cripple health care providers as we continue to face the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nHealth care professionals across the spectrum are reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 emergency as they continue to serve patients during this global pandemic,Daines wrote.The payment cuts finalized by CMS would pose a threat to providers and their patients under any circumstances, but during a pandemic the impact is even more profound.\r\nTo read the full letter, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-becerra-is-a-disaster-for-religious-freedom-pro-life-issues", "Daines: Becerra is a Disaster for Religious Freedom, Pro-Life Issues", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.20\n\t\t\t Daines: Becerra is a Disaster for Religious Freedom, Pro-Life Issues \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senator Steve Daines, founder and chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, released the following statement on Xavier Becerra:\r\nXavier Becerra is a disaster for religious freedom and pro-life issues,Daines stated.He has made his career aggressively pursuing a radical pro-abortion agenda and attacking the religious freedom of Americans who believe in the sanctity of human life.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-cybersecurity-bill-signed-into-law", "Daines Cybersecurity Bill Signed Into Law", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.20\n\t\t\t Daines Cybersecurity Bill Signed Into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines announced that his bipartisan bill requiring commonsense cybersecurity standardsforinternet connected devicesbought by the U.S.government has been signed into law by President Trump.\r\nAfter years of bipartisan work and strong support, my commonsense bill to increase cybersecurity standards for internet connected devices has been signed into law,Daines said.As more and more products have internet connectivity, we must guarantee we have basic safeguards and protections in place to ensure our national security is safe from cyber threats.\r\nSpecifically, theInternetofThings(IoT) Cybersecurity Improvement Actwould:\r\nRequire the National InstituteofStandards and Technology (NIST) to issue recommendations addressing, at a minimum, secure development, identity management, patching, and configuration management forIoTdevices.\r\nDirect theOfficeofManagement and Budget (OMB) to issue guidelines for each agency that are consistent with the NIST recommendations,including making any necessary revisions to the Federal Acquisition Regulation to implement new security standards and guidelines.\r\nRequire anyIoTdevicespurchased by the federal government to comply with those recommendations.\r\nDirect NIST to work with cybersecurity researchers, industry experts, and the DepartmentofHomeland Security (DHS) to publishguidelines onvulnerability disclosure and remediation for federal information systems.\r\nRequire contractors and vendors providing information systems to the U.S. government to adopt coordinated vulnerability disclosure policies, so that if a vulnerability is uncovered, that can be effectively shared with a vendor for remediation.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-feinstein-lamalfa-panetta-urge-passage-of-bipartisan-forest-management-bill", "Daines, Feinstein, LaMalfa, Panetta Urge Passage of Bipartisan Forest Management Bill", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Feinstein, LaMalfa, Panetta Urge Passage of Bipartisan Forest Management Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. CONGRESS U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein and Congressmen Doug LaMalfa and Jimmy Panetta led a bipartisan group of Members in urging Congressional Leadership to pass their bipartisan wildfire prevention and forest management legislation by the end of the year. The bipartisan bill will protect Western communities from deadly wildfires, promote public safety and create good paying timber jobs.\r\nWe write to you near the end of another catastrophic wildfire year. Over 8.7 million acres have burned in the West, 2.2 million acres more than the ten-year average. Experts predict that this trend will continue, as rising temperatures lead to drier, hotter conditions in many parts of the West,the Members wrote.Each year that Congress delays in passing forestry legislation, we jeopardize the lives and homes of our constituents. We respectfully urge you to include provisions from S. 4431 in any end-of-year legislative package and support passage of this Western priority.\r\nTo read the full letter, clickHERE.\r\nSenators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo and Congressmen Greg Gianforte, Jim Costa, Josh Harder and John Garamendi also signed the letter.\r\nThe bipartisan legislation has the support of over 100 organizations, including governors, mayors, counties, conservation organizations, and fire departments.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnSeptember 16th, 2020, in aU.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing,U.S. Senators Daines and Feinstein stressed the importance of passingtheir bipartisan wildfire prevention and forest management reform bill.\r\nOnSeptember 9th, 2020, U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein announced that their bipartisan forest management reform bill had been given a hearing date in the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for the following week.\r\nOnAugust 20th, 2020, U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein sent a letter to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee calling for a hearing as soon as possible on their bipartisan forest management reform legislation.\r\nEarlier this summer, Daines and Feinsteinintroduceda major forest management reform bill after working for over a year on a bill that would have strong bipartisan consensus.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-gianforte-urge-passage-of-bipartisan-forest-management-bill", "Daines, Gianforte Urge Passage of Bipartisan Forest Management Bill", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.07.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Gianforte Urge Passage of Bipartisan Forest Management Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. CONGRESS U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Congressman Greg Gianforte sent a letter urging Congressional Leadership to pass their bipartisan forest management legislation by the end of the year. The bill will protect Montana communities from deadly wildfires, promote public safety and health, stop frivolous litigation, and create good paying timber jobs.\r\nWe write to you near the end of another catastrophic wildfire year. Over 8.7 million acres have burned in the West, 2.2 million acres more than the ten-year average. Experts predict that this trend will continue, as rising temperatures lead to drier, hotter conditions in many parts of the West,they wrote.Each year that Congress delays in passing forestry legislation, we jeopardize the lives and homes of our constituents. We respectfully urge you to include provisions from S. 4431 in any end-of-year legislative package and support passage of this Western priority.\r\nTo read the full letter, clickHERE.\r\nThe bipartisanbill was introduced by Senators Daines (R-MT)andFeinstein (D-CA) and CongressmenJimmy Panetta (D-CA), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), and Greg Gianforte (R-MT).\r\nThe legislation also has the support of over 100 organizations, including governors, mayors, counties, conservation organizations, and fire departments.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnSeptember 16th, 2020, in aU.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing,U.S. Senators Daines and Feinstein stressed the importance of passingtheir bipartisan wildfire prevention and forest management reform bill.\r\nOnSeptember 9th, 2020, U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein announced that their bipartisan forest management reform bill had been given a hearing date in the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for the following week.\r\nOnAugust 20th, 2020, Daines sent a letter to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee calling for a hearing as soon as possible on his bipartisan forest management reform legislation.\r\nOnAugust 17th, 2020, Daines hosted a roundtable discussion with local Montana leaders, conservation groups, leaders in the timber industry, and fire officials on his bipartisan forest management reform bill at Flathead National Forest.\r\nEarlier this summer, Dainesintroducedhis major forest management reform bill after working for over a year on a bipartisan product that would have strong bipartisan consensus.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-bipartisan-bill-promoting-veteran-outdoor-recovery-programs-signed-into-law", "Daines' Bipartisan Bill Promoting Veteran Outdoor Recovery Programs Signed into Law", "2020-12-06", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.20\n\t\t\t Daines' Bipartisan Bill Promoting Veteran Outdoor Recovery Programs Signed into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill will utilize the outdoors to help veterans with medical treatment and therapy\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE Today, U.S. Senator Steve Daines' bipartisan bill that promotes outdoor veteran recovery programs and expands outdoor recreational opportunities for veterans on public lands was signed into law. The Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will helpcreate treatment and therapy opportunities for veterans on public lands and outdoor spaces.\r\nThe outdoors is critical to our Montana way of life andcan help Montana veterans who are recoveringfrom trauma and injuries they experienced in combat,\"Daines said.\"That's why I'm gladmy bipartisan bill promoting recovery and treatment programs on public lands for the benefit of Montanaveterans has been signed into law.\r\nDaines' bipartisan bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs toestablish a task force onoutdoor recreation for veterans to report on and make recommendations regarding the use of public lands or other outdoor spaces for medical treatment and therapy for veterans.\r\nDaines' bipartisan bill has significantsupport from stakeholders.\r\nAt Vista Outdoor, we are committed to getting people of all ages, backgrounds, and professions outdoors.Those who have served our nation in uniform deserve all the benefits that the outdoors has to offer.We see this legislation as a critical first step to prioritizing outdoor activities for the treatment of veterans on our federal lands. With more than 20 million veterans and over 660 million acres of federal land, this legislation is a smart policy match and we support it wholeheartedly. -Fred Ferguson, Vice President of Public Affairs, Vista Outdoors\r\nTheCOMPACT Act (formerly Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act) is an important step towardconnecting moreveteranswith outdoor recreation on public lands and honoring our commitment to caring for our nation'sveteranswhen they return home. This legislation will help moreveterans experience the outdoors and further connect outdoor recreation to their health and wellness. We applaud the leaders of this important legislation on its passage and look forward to working with them on continued support of our veterans. -Lise Aangeenbrug, Executive Director, Outdoor Industry Association\r\nOur veterans deserve the best care possible, including appropriate doses of time in nature and the outdoors.As an ever-expanding body of evidence demonstrates, there is a direct connection between regular opportunities for recreating in nature and improvements in vets' physical and mental wellbeing. At REI, we are confident that the Access to Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act, paired with research being done around the country, can create more pathways for veterans to heal.We especially appreciate the leadership of those who led this important legislation and their commitment to removing barriers to connect veterans to nature as a form of healing. -Taldi Harrison, Government Affairs Manager, REI\r\nThe Access to Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will connect America's veterans to the many health benefits that come with outdoor recreation.Our public lands and waters are an important venue to provide veterans with innovative opportunities to recover and heal. This legislation will bring government stakeholders together around a unified mission to connect more veterans to the outdoors.This important bill wouldn't have been possible without the leadership of those who introduced it and the coalition who supported it.Thanks to them, our veterans will have more opportunities outdoors. -Jessica Turner, Executive Director, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable\r\nThere's healing power in bicycling and outdoor recreation for mental and physical health. SenatorsDaines and Cortez Masto's legislation leverages the great outdoors to help with veterans' recovery close to home. Our nation's veterans deserve the best care available, and finding newopportunities to take advantage of public lands, parks and trails for better health is something we should all welcome. -Jenn Dice, CEO, PeopleForBikes\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-service-academy-nominees", "Daines Announces Service Academy Nominees", "2020-12-05", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.05.20\n\t\t\t Daines Announces Service Academy Nominees \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced his five principal nominations made up of Montana students who are applying for enrollment into U.S. Federal Service Academies.\r\nIt's an honor to nominate these five outstanding young Montanans who will compete for an appointment at one of our nation's service academies,Daines said.I applaud these hardworking students for their commitment to continuing Montana's legacy of service to our Armed Forces and wish them the best as they continue in this extremely competitive process.\r\nA congressional nomination is a critical step in the process for Montanans seeking admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis or the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point.\r\nStudents interested in applying for a nomination from the Senator were required to submit an extensive application that documents their academic, civic and athletic abilities, as well as their commitment to military service. An academy selection board assembled by Daines reviewed the applications and conducted interviews of the applicants.\r\nThe following is a list of Daines' principal academy nominations:\r\nAlaynee Hawley, Harlem, principalNominee to U.S. Air Force Academy\r\nRiley Horton, Missoula, principalNominee to U.S. Air Force Academy\r\nCalahan Barker, Red Lodge, principalNominee to U.S. Naval Academy\r\nBrandon Wenzel, Big Fork, principalNominee to West Point Military Academy\r\nGideon Survoy, Bozeman, principalNominee to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-pushes-to-expand-permanent-telehealth-coverage", "Daines Pushes to Expand Permanent Telehealth Coverage", "2020-12-04", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.04.20\n\t\t\t Daines Pushes to Expand Permanent Telehealth Coverage \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today sent a letter to Congressional leadership calling for the expansion of access to telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic to be made permanent. Provisions from Daines' CONNECT for Health Act have allowed Medicare beneficiaries in Montana to utilize telehealth services and were included in previous COVID-19 legislation but will expire following the pandemic unless Congress acts to make those measures permanent.\r\nTelehealth has been a critical tool during the COVID-19 pandemic in ensuring that patients can continue to receive the health care services that they need while minimizing the spread of the virus and keeping health care providers and patients healthy and safe,Daines wrote. We continue to hear from our constituents and health care providers that the uncertainty about the long-term future of Medicare telehealth coverage is a barrier to organizations investing fully in telehealth. Congress needs to act now to better serve patients and health care providers during the pandemic, and to ensure that telehealth remains an option after the pandemic is over.\r\nTo read the full letter, clickHERE.\r\nIn his letter, Daines highlighted the growing use and benefits of telehealth during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic as patients seek to avoid traveling to hospitals and other providers and instead receive care at home. New data shows that the number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services increased by nearly 13,000 percent in just a month and a half during the pandemic.\r\nThe bipartisan and bicameral Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act was first introduced in 2016. The bill, which is cosponsored by 46 senators, is considered the most comprehensive telehealth legislation in Congress.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-bipartisan-bill-supporting-montanans-diagnosed-with-als-passes-us-senate", "Daines' Bipartisan Bill Supporting Montanans Diagnosed with ALS Passes U.S. Senate", "2020-12-02", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.02.20\n\t\t\t Daines' Bipartisan Bill Supporting Montanans Diagnosed with ALS Passes U.S. Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE -Today, the U.S. Senate passedSenatorDaines' bipartisan billthat helps support Montanans battling the devastating diseasecalledamyotrophic lateral sclerosis orALS.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor a video statement from the Senator, click HERE.\r\nALS is a devastating disease, andMontanans who have been diagnosed with itshould not have towait fivemonths to receive disability benefits.My bipartisan bill eliminates thiswaiting period,providing quicker access to benefits for those who suffer from this aggressive disease. I'm glad to see my bill pass the U.S. Senate, and I will continue fighting until it's passed out of the House and signed into law to help support Montanans battling ALS, Daines said.\r\nCurrently, there is a Social Security Disability Insurance five-month waiting period for people with ALS. The five-month waiting period is intended to allow temporary conditions to reverse. However, there are no cures or treatments to delay or reverse the progression of ALS. Daines' legislation will allow Montanans with ALS to receive both Medicare and Social Security Disability Insurance benefits in the first month the patient is under disability.\r\nALS is a degenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-new-agreement-between-mlb-montana-minor-league-teams", "Daines Statement on New Agreement Between MLB, Montana Minor League Teams", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.30.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on New Agreement Between MLB, Montana Minor League Teams \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today released the following statement after it was announced that after months of negotiations, Major League Baseball (MLB) and Montana's Minor League Baseball teams have come to an agreement on the future of professional baseball in Montana.\r\nProfessional baseball in Montana helps bring our communities together and drive our local economies,Daines said.I'm very glad that after months of negotiations, MLB and Montana's minor leagueteams have come to an agreement to allow Great Falls, Missoula, and Billings to continue playing professionalbaseball in their communities. It was my privilege to fight for the future of Montana's minor league teams, and I look forward to seeing the success of the league.\r\nDaines has been working to save Montana's Minor League teams since MLB announced they would be cutting ties with 42 minor league teams across the country.\r\nBeginning in 2021, the Pioneer League including the Billings Mustangs, Missoula PaddleHeads, and Great Falls Voyagers will be designated as a partner league with MLB. All of Montana's teams will maintain their existing team names and brands and will collaborate with MLB on operating expenses, marketing, ticketing, and fan engagement opportunities. They will also have a procedure in place with opportunities for players to transfer to MLB clubs.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnSeptember 30th, 2020, Daines sent a letter to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and Minor League Baseball President Pat O'Connor urging them to come to an agreement to preserve Montana's three baseball clubs and provide MLB clubs the option of having up to five MiLB affiliates.\r\nOnJune 25th, 2020, Daines introduced a bill that would make Major League Baseball teams ineligible to participate or benefit from the Paycheck Protection Program or emergencylending programs within theCARESAct if MLB moved forward with eliminating Montana's MiLB teams.\r\nOnMay 7th, 2020, Daines sent a letter to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfredand MiLB PresidentPat O'Connor urging them to extend the deadline for a decision on MiLB teams in Montana due to the impact on sporting events from COVID-19.\r\nOnDecember 4th, 2019, Daines sent a letter to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred urging them to continue supportingMontana's MiLB teamsdue to reports about an MLB proposal to sever ties with 42 Minor League teams.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-cdc-to-ensure-all-montana-communities-get-access-to-covid-19-vaccines-once-approved", "Daines Urges CDC to Ensure all Montana Communities Get Access to COVID-19 Vaccines Once Approved", "2020-11-24", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.24.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges CDC to Ensure all Montana Communities Get Access to COVID-19 Vaccines Once Approved \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Request follows Daines' participation in Pfizer's vaccine trial to build trust, confidence for Montanans\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S.Senator Steve Daines today called on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure Montanans across the state, including those in rural communities, get access to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible. This follows Daines'announcement that he participated in Pfizer's vaccine trial to build confidence and trust for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should take the vaccine.\r\nAs states across the country work to develop their vaccine distribution plans in consultation with the federal government, I encourage the CDC to consider the unique challenges facing those in remote and rural communities in Montana and across the nation who may have difficulty accessing vaccination services,Daines wrote.It will also be critical to ensure that frontline health care heroes, essential workers, individuals with medical conditions possessing risk factors for severe COVID-19 illness, as well as staff and residents of long-term care facilities such as nursing homes have access to a safe and effective vaccine as soon as possible.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to CDC Director Redfield, clickHERE.\r\nDaines has been working with the nation's top scientists, researchers, American innovators, and Administration officials to lead the fight in the Senate to secure funding for the dual tracking of vaccine manufacturing and clinical trials, known as Operation Warp Speed.\r\nJustlast week, Senator Daines announced his participation in Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial and his positive test for COVID-19 antibodies.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-to-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-montana-jobs-small-businesses-community-banks-impacted-by-pandemic", "Daines to Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Montana Jobs, Small Businesses, Community Banks Impacted by Pandemic", "2020-11-19", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.19.20\n\t\t\t Daines to Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Montana Jobs, Small Businesses, Community Banks Impacted by Pandemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill will forgive small dollar loans created by the EIDL Advance program\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced plans to introduce bipartisan legislation that will protect Montana jobs and provide critical relief to Montana small businesses, community banks and credit unions.\r\nMontana small businesses and our local community banks have been drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. They need relief to help protect jobs and workers, not unnecessary loans and payments during these hard times. That's why I'll be introducingbipartisan legislation to ensure small dollar loans are forgiven,Daines said.\r\nDaines' legislation will end the requirement that Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance grants be subtracted from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness; ensuring small dollar loans created by this requirement are forgiven.\r\nDaines plans to introduce his legislation with Senator Angus King of Maine.\r\nAs part of the CARES Act, Congress created the EIDL Advance program, which allowed businesses to receive a grant of $1,000 per employee, capped at $10,000. However, small businesses who also received PPP loans must subtract the EIDL advance amount they received from their total forgiveness, leaving both small businesses and local community banks and credit unions with small dollar loans and a five-year term.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnOctober 18th, 2020, Daines sent a letter to leadership of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship urging them to address the issue between EIDL loans and the PPP forgiveness program.\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts clickHERE.\r\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-participation-in-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine-trial-positive-test-for-antibodies", "Daines Announces Participation in Pfizer's COVID-19 Vaccine Trial, Positive Test For Antibodies", "2020-11-18", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.18.20\n\t\t\t Daines Announces Participation in Pfizer's COVID-19 Vaccine Trial, Positive Test For Antibodies \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines: This is about building confidence for those looking to take the vaccine. It's about saving lives, protecting Montana jobs, promoting American innovation, restoring hope.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced his participation in Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine trial. The trial is a blind trial, however, Daines has since tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies.Thisfollows Pfizer's announcement of the vaccine being 95% effective and plans to seek FDAemergency use authorization in the coming days.\r\nBack in August, I got a call from my mom telling me how Pfizer was looking for people to enroll in their COVID-19 vaccine trial right in my hometown of Bozeman. Thanks to that call, my sweet wife Cindy and I decided to go online and enroll in the trial  joining over one hundred everyday Montanans participating. While thiswas a blind trial, I have since testedpositivefor COVID-19antibodies.\r\nMy goal is to help build confidence and trust for Montanans and the American people wondering if they should take the vaccine when it is approved. This is about saving lives. This is about supporting our healthcare heroes. This is about protecting Montana jobs & workers and rebuilding our economy.This is about American exceptionalism and innovation.This is about restoring hope. This is about restoring normalcy into our way of life.\r\nSince the start of the pandemic, I've made the research, development and manufacturing of a COVID-19 vaccine and therapeutic drugs a top priority because I believe in order to get back to normal, we need a safe and effective vaccine. That's why I worked hand in hand with our nation's top scientists, researchers and American innovators to discuss what was needed to get a vaccine into the hands of the American people as safely and quickly as possible, including securing an initial $10 billion to move forward with dual tracking of clinical trials and manufacturing, known as Operation Warp Speed.\r\nWhile I believe a vaccine is key to getting back to normal, I do not believe in mandating it.Iwould, however, encourage people to get the vaccine once approved, in consultation with their doctor.I trust Montanans to make the decision for themselves, use commonsense and practice personal responsibility. While we wait for a final vaccine approval, we must remain smart, protect the most vulnerable in our communities, and be responsible.\r\nEarlier today, Pfizer announced their vaccine is 95% effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19. They also announced plans toseek FDA emergency use authorization within days.\r\nBackground:\r\nPfizer and the Trump administrationentered into a $1.95 billion agreementtohelp withproduction and nationwide delivery of the vaccine. Thisfundingwas from Operation Warp Speed, which Daines was critical insecuring funding for since the start of the pandemic.\r\nSenator Daines was instrumental in securing $10 billion in funding through the CARES Act for thedevelopment and delivery of COVID-19vaccines and treatments under Operation Warp Speed - with topresearchers, scientists and administration officialstouting the Senator's work.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-malmstrom-to-receive-helicopter-upgrade-this-summer-following-direct-request", "Daines: Malmstrom to Receive Helicopter Upgrade This Summer Following Direct Request", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.17.20\n\t\t\t Daines: Malmstrom to Receive Helicopter Upgrade This Summer Following Direct Request \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Announcement follows years of work by Daines to secure UH-1N Huey helicopter replacements for Malmstrom\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that Malmstrom Air Force Base will receive the MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopter upgrade replacing the Vietnam era UH-1N Huey's in the summer of 2021. Malmstrom will be the first Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) base in the country to receive this critical upgrade. This news follows Daines' direct request and extensive work to secure the upgraded helicopters for Montana.\r\nToday's announcement that Malmstrom will be receiving these critical helicopter upgrades is great news for Montana and our country's national security,Daines said.I'm proud to have fought to secure this critical upgrade for Malmstrom and I look forward to seeing the upgraded helicopters in action in the future.\r\nGeneral Timothy Ray, Air Force Global Strike Command Commander, shared the news with Daines this morning. The new helicopters will provide critical security for intercontinental ballistic missiles stationed around Malmstrom Air Force Base.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnJuly 23rd, 2020, Daines voted for and secured Senate passage of critical Montana priorities in the Senate defense bill called the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Daines secured a 3% pay raise for the military, relief for service members impacted by COVID-19 and support for the Montana Army and Air National Guard and Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls.\r\nOnMarch 10th, 2020, Daines announced that $15,077,162 will go to the renovation of an existing 3-Bay hangar at Malmstrom Air Force Base to facilitate the storage of the new MH-139 helicopter.\r\nOnSeptember 28th, 2018, President Trump signed a bill into law that prioritizes Montana's military units, installations, research partners, universities, small businesses and manufacturers. The bill was critical to Montana, Malmstrom, Montana National Guard and the rest of the nation.\r\nOnSeptember 18th, 2018,Daines voted to secure funding for Montana's military units, installations, research partners, universities, small businesses and manufactures.\r\nOnJune 18th, 2018, Daines today announced that he helped secure critical support for Montana's Malmstrom Air Force Base in the Fiscal Year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including legislation authorizingvital support for modernizing Malmstrom's ground-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) infrastructure and replacing UH-1N Huey military helicopters at the base.\r\nOnMay 17th, 2018, Daines urged Heather Wilson, Secretary of the Air Force, to consider Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls as a future base for the B-21 bomber. He also requested an update on the plan to replace Montana's aging UH-1N helicopters.\r\nOnJune 7th, 2016, Daines' amendment to provide additional security for land based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) sites, like Malmstrom Air Force Base (AFB) unanimously passed the United States Senate and will now be included in the National Defense Authorization Act.\r\nOnMay 11th, 2016, Daines announced that the Air Force would be going with the slowest proposed route to replace the Vietnam-era UH-1Ns that provide security for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base.\r\nOnApril 27th, 2016, Daines pressed Department of Defense Secretary Ash Carter on the timeline to upgrade Vietnam-era UH-1N helicopters to provide much-needed security for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base (AFB).\r\nOnMarch 18th, 2016, Daines led eight Senators in calling on the Air Force to expedite their decision on the course of action to replace Vietnamera UH-1N helicopters that provide security for our nuclear weapons.\r\nOnFebruary 10th, 2016, Daines called on the U.S. Air Force to prioritize the readiness of Montana's military missions by ensuring the modernization of aircraft at Montana's Malmstrom Air Force Base.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-fights-to-protect-montana-air-national-guards-c-130s", "Daines Fights to Protect Montana Air National Guards C-130s", "2020-11-13", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.13.20\n\t\t\t Daines Fights to Protect Montana Air National Guard's C-130s \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines urged Senate and House Armed Services CommitteeLeadership to maintain a minimum inventoryof 292 C-130 aircraft, which includes thoseused by the Montana Air National Guard, in the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\r\nOur Air National Guard C-130 flying wings provide nearly half of the Air Force's tactical airlift capability. For more than 50 years, we have brought Americans into combat, provided humanitarian relief around the globe, andsupported domestic response throughout the nation,Daines wrote.As the Air Force proposes changes to align our force structure with the National Defense Strategy (NDS), it is vitally important we do not trade experience and knowhow in pursuit of expensive, less defined capabilities.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Senate and House ArmedServices CommitteeLeadership, clickHERE.\r\nEnsuring that the minimum number of C-130 aircraft remains at 292 is critical so that squadrons, including the Montana Air National Guard, can conduct flight training, allow for more backup aircraft, and give America more flexibility for critical maintenance and depot periods that meet the requirements set by the NationalDefense Strategy (NDS).\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-bipartisan-resolution-honoring-montana-wildland-firefighters-first-responders-passes-us-senate", "Daines' Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Montana Wildland Firefighters, First Responders Passes U.S. Senate", "2020-11-12", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.12.20\n\t\t\t Daines' Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Montana Wildland Firefighters, First Responders Passes U.S. Senate \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that his bipartisan Senate resolution recognizing the bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of wildland firefighters and first responders across Montana and the nation has passed the U.S. Senate. The resolution also honors those who have lost their lives this fire season, including Montanans Tom Duffy and Sara Madsen.\r\nMontana's wildland firefighters and first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities and families from devastating wildfires, and this was a devastating fire season,Daines said.I'm glad to see the Senate pass my resolution recognizing these Montana heroes and honoring those we've lost this fire season, including Tom Duffy and Sara Madsen. I will always stand with our fire fighters and first responders, and will continue working to ensure they have the resources and tools they need each fire season.\r\nTo download TV elements clickHERE.\r\nTo read the bipartisan resolution, clickHERE.\r\nThis wildfire season has been intense and has caused severe damage to forests, property, and even loss of life. Over 35 people died and over 4,000 properties were destroyed as wildfires burned across the West. Over 30,000 wildland firefighters and military were mobilized to fight fires throughout Montana, California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and other states.\r\nBackground:\r\nOnOctober 6th, 2020, Daines introduced his Senate resolution to recognize the bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of wildland firefighters and first responders across Montana and the nation.\r\n\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-trump-signs-gianforte-daines-bill-save-sidney-kinsey", "President Trump Signs Gianforte, Daines Bill to Save Sidney Kinsey Irrigation Districts into Law", "2020-10-31", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte andU.S. Senator Steve Daines today celebratedtheir bill to savethe Sidney Kinsey Irrigation Districts being signedinto law by President Trump. The bill ensuresirrigators in the communities continue receiving affordable power that enables irrigation for farm and ranch land.\nAg is Montana's number one industry, and I appreciate President Trump signing into law our bipartisan bill to support farmers and ranchers. Our new law ensures more than 130 family farms in Eastern Montana have access to reliable irrigation,\"Gianforte said.\"I'll continue working hard to protect Montana farmers and ranchers.\"\nThis is a great day for Montana's farmers and ranchers in Sidney and Kinsey who depend on affordable power and reliable irrigation access,Daines said. This bill protects Montana ag jobs andensuresMontana irrigators in Sidney and Kinsey cansleep soundly at night knowing they won't be faced with unreasonable price increases this Decemberand in the future. Thank you to Congressman Gianforte for working with meto get this done, and to President Trump for signing our bill into law.\nThe Sidney and Kinsey Irrigation Districts will now have continued access to affordable power that facilitates irrigation. Together, the Districts serve more than 130 family farms and irrigates nearly 12,000 acres of farmland in eastern Montana. These fields produce hay, corn, potatoes, soybeans, and peas, and nearly 4,800 of the acres are sugar beets produced for Sidney Sugars, Inc. The operations from Kinsey also helps feed more than 20,000 cattle a year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-trump-signs-daines-gianforte-bill-to-save-sidney-kinsey-irrigation-districts-into-law-", "President Trump Signs Daines, Gianforte Bill to Save Sidney Kinsey Irrigation Districts into Law", "2020-10-31", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.31.20\n\t\t\t President Trump Signs Daines, Gianforte Bill to Save Sidney Kinsey Irrigation Districts into Law  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill ensures Montana farms and ranches have continued access to reliable power, protects Montana jobs\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. CONGRESS U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Congressman Greg Gianforte today celebratedtheir bill to savethe Sidney Kinsey Irrigation Districts being signedinto law by President Trump. The bill ensuresirrigators in the communities continue receiving affordable power that enables irrigation for farm and ranch land.\r\nThis is a great day for Montana's farmers and ranchers in Sidney and Kinsey who depend on affordable power and reliable irrigation access,Daines said. This bill protects Montana ag jobs andensuresMontana irrigators in Sidney and Kinsey cansleep soundly at night knowing they won't be faced with unreasonable price increases this Decemberand in the future. Thank you to Congressman Gianforte for working with meto get this done, and to President Trump for signing our bill into law.\r\nAg is Montana's number one industry, and I appreciate President Trump signing into law our bipartisan bill to support farmers and ranchers. Our new law ensures more than 130 family farms in Eastern Montana have access to reliable irrigation,\" Gianforte said. \"I'll continue working hard to protect Montana farmers and ranchers.\"\r\nThe Sidney and Kinsey Irrigation Districts will now have continued access to affordable power that facilitates irrigation. Together, the Districts serve more than 130 family farms and irrigates nearly 12,000 acres of farmland in eastern Montana. These fields produce hay, corn, potatoes, soybeans, and peas, and nearly 4,800 of the acres are sugar beets produced for Sidney Sugars, Inc. The operations from Kinsey also helps feed more than 20,000 cattle a year.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-montana-veterans-gold-star-families-to-get-free-entrance-to-national-parks", "Daines Announces Montana Veterans, Gold Star Families to Get Free Entrance to National Parks", "2020-10-28", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.28.20\n\t\t\t Daines Announces Montana Veterans, Gold Star Families to Get Free Entrance to National Parks \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the Department of the Interior will grant Montana veterans and Gold Star Families free access to national parks and other public lands starting Veterans Day, November 11th, 2020.\r\nMontana veterans and Gold Star Families have given so much defending our freedom. I'm thankful to the Trump administration and Secretary Bernhardt for granting free admission to our national parks and public lands for our nation's heroes and Gold Star Families, Daines said.\r\nEarlier this year, Daines introduced bipartisan legislation to provide Gold Star Families free admission into national parks and other federal public lands.\r\nGold Star Family members are those who are next of kin of a member of the United States Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a qualifying situation, such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the United States Armed Forces.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-calls-on-senate-leadership-to-prevent-cuts-to-medicare-payments-protect-montana-patients", "Daines Calls on Senate Leadership to Prevent Cuts to Medicare Payments, Protect Montana Patients", "2020-10-27", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.27.20\n\t\t\t Daines Calls on Senate Leadership to Prevent Cuts to Medicare Payments, Protect Montana Patients \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Dainesyesterday sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging them to prevent Medicare payment cuts and protect patients in Montana in legislation before the end of the year.\r\nI have heard from Montanans that these payment cuts will further strain our state's health care system and practitioners already stressed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and could also jeopardize patient access to medically necessary services over the long-term, Daines wrote. I stand ready to work with you to prevent these harmful cuts and support Montana's physicians and other health care professionals who are on the frontlines of this pandemic to continue ensuring Montanans across the state can access necessary medical services.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Senate leadership, click HERE.\r\nIn his letter, Daines expressed his concerns with payment cuts proposed for certain health care providers, which will affect a large number of specialty physicians, surgeons, physical therapists, and other providers in Montana. Due to the pandemic, medical professionals across Montana are already facing financial challenges, and these payment reductions could hinder access to care for patients.\r\nAs Montana's health care system and medical providers continue to feel pressure from rising cases of COVID-19, Senator Daines is fighting to ensure our health care heroes across the state who are on the frontlines of this pandemic are supported so that Montanans can access necessary medical services.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-receives-friend-farm-bureau-award-0", "Gianforte Receives Friend of Farm Bureau Award", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Montana Farm Bureau (MFBF) on Friday presented Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) with its Friend of Farm Bureau Award.\nIt's a tremendous honor to receive this Friend of Farm Bureau Award from the Farm Bureau for the work we've done back in Congress, Gianforte said. Ag is our number one industry. It's been a rough year with COVID-19 and not getting fair prices, but I'm optimistic. I think there's a lot we can to do help our farmers and ranchers get back on their feet and prosper again.\n\nJohn Youngberg, executive vice president of the MFBF, said, We appreciate his willingness to listen to us. His open-door policy allows us to come in and work with him. And also his votes on issues: he's been golden for agriculture, which is appropriate since it is Montana's number one industry.\nNicole Rolf, MFBF's director of national affairs, said, Congressman Gianforte is a true friend to the farmers and ranchers of Montana. He takes the time to really understand the wide variety of issues impacting us in our state and seeks out solutions with a business mindset and a dedicated work ethic. We appreciate all that he has done to support Montana agriculture while in Congress and are proud to recognize him with the Friend of Farm Bureau Award.\nThe American Farm Bureau Federation's (AFBF) gives the Friend of Farm Bureau each Congress to lawmakers who have supported Farm Bureau policy, were nominated by their respective state Farm Bureau, and were approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. The voting records of the 116th Congress are based on priority issues selected by the AFBF board.\nGianforte also received the award in 2018.\nClick HERE for audio of Gianforte's and Youngberg's statements.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-amy-coney-barretts-confirmation-to-the-united-states-supreme-court", "Daines Statement on Amy Coney Barrett's Confirmation to the United States Supreme Court", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.26.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on Amy Coney Barrett's Confirmation to the United States Supreme Court \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines issued the following statement after voting to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court:\r\n\r\nFor video of Daines' statement, click HERE.\r\nToday, I proudly voted to confirmAmy Coney Barrettto the United States Supreme Court. Justice Barrett's qualifications andcharacter are indisputable. She is a brilliant jurist, and asa mother of seven children, she is an inspiration to professional women, working moms and school-aged girls across Montana who can feel certain there is no American Dream that women can't achieve, Daines said. Justice Barrett will safeguard our liberties,defend the Constitution, and protect our Montana way of lifeincludingthe Second Amendment andourMontana jobsfordecadesto come.\r\n\r\nFor photos and TV elements of Daines' Oct. 1st meeting with Justice Barrett, click HERE.\r\nStatements in support of Daines' vote to confirm Justice Barrett to follow.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn October 25th, 2020, Daines voted YES on a procedural vote to advance the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court.\r\nOn October 24th, 2020, Daines spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate in support of confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett to our nation's highest court.\r\nOn October 22nd, 2020, Daines issued a statement afterthe nomination ofJudge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court was approved out of the Senate Judiciary Committee.\r\nOn October 1st, 2020, Daines met with President Trump's nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court, JudgeAmy Coney Barrett.\r\nOn September 26th, 2020, Daines issued a statement following President Donald Trump's announcement of Amy Coney Barrett as his nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.\r\nOn September 18th, 2020, Daines issued his statement on the passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-deadline-flexibility-for-tribal-covid-relief-fund", "Daines Urges Deadline Flexibility for Tribal COVID Relief Fund", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.26.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges Deadline Flexibility for Tribal COVID Relief Fund \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines urged Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows to give Montana Tribes more flexibility to utilize funding from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF). The letter asks Mnuchin and Meadows to expand the definition of allowable CRF incurred expenses to include projects that will be substantially completed by 2021.\r\nwhile tribes will be able to purchase masks and other short-term life goods before the end of 2020, the requirement that performance or delivery must occur during the covered period' severely handicaps tribes' ability to use these funds for some of their most pressing needs in responding to Coronavirus and largely defeats the purpose of the fund, Daines wrote. Updating the guidance to allow tribes and other CRF eligible entities to complete essential public health infrastructure projects will honor the intent of the CARES Act and address the ongoing needs of communities during the pandemic.\r\nTo read the letter, which Daines sent with Senator Martha McSally of Arizona, click HERE.\r\nStarting these critical public health projects with CRF funds is not allowed under current CRF guidance. Extending the deadline will allow Montana Tribes to complete their most significant pandemic response projects, including the construction of health care facilities and improvements to water infrastructure.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-montana-leaders-thank-daines-for-voting-in-support-of-justice-amy-coney-barretts-confirmation", "What They Are Saying: Montana Leaders Thank Daines for Voting in Support of Justice Amy Coney Barretts Confirmation", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.26.20\n\t\t\t What They Are Saying: Montana Leaders Thank Daines for Voting in Support of Justice Amy Coney Barrett's Confirmation \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  Today U.S. Senator Steve Daines voted yes to confirm Justice Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. Several Montana leaders issued statements in support of Daines' vote to confirm Justice Barrett.\r\nToday, I proudly voted to confirmAmy Coney Barrettto the United States Supreme Court. JusticeBarrett's qualifications andcharacter are indisputable. She is a brilliant jurist, and asa mother of seven children, she is an inspiration to professional women, working moms and school-aged girls across Montana who can feel certain there is no American Dream that women can't achieve.Justice Barrett will safeguard our liberties,defend the Constitution, and protect our Montana way of lifeincludingthe Second Amendment andourMontana jobsfordecadesto come.  Daines' statement following the vote\r\nStatements of Support:\r\nI want to thank President Trump and Senator Daines for supporting a strong female leader on our nation's highest court. Judge Amy Coney Barrett will be an excellent Justice on the United States Supreme Court and is a role model for future Montana women leaders. Judge Barrett will ensure future generations of Montanans are able to enjoy the rights and liberties secured for American citizens in our Constitution.  Elsie Arntzen, Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction\r\nJudge Amy Coney Barrett's brilliance, scholarship, and legal acumen are widely known and accepted on both sides of the aisle. However, as a former law student of Judge Barrett, I can attest to her great character, selflessness, and commitment to our U.S. Constitution. As a Montanan, I am proud of Senator Daines for supporting such a qualified candidate to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.  Chase Giacomo, Former law student of Judge Barrett, Kalispell native\r\nAmy Coney Barrett is humble, and at the same time, she is leader in standing for the principles that have guided this nation so well for over 200 years. I watched her speak with grace and compassion, never wavering in her beliefs and never compromising judicial integrity. I believe she is the absolute best choice, for such a time as this, to fill the vacancy left by Justice Ginsburg. Thank you Senator for standing with Montanans as we strive to keep our country principled and conservative.  Kendra Espinoza, plaintiff,Espinoza v. Montana\r\n\r\nAfter watching Judge Barrett's confirmation hearings, it's clear that her commitment to the Constitution and upholding the rule of law is beyond reproach. I urge both of Montana's Senators to ignore the slanderous attacks and confirm this brilliant jurist as quickly as possible.  Wynn Meehan, Sheriff, Broadwater County\r\n\r\nJudge Barrett's appointment to the Supreme Court is welcome relief for those of us who have seen our way of life disappearing at the hands of activist judges. From the power plant at Colstrip, to the Keystone XL Pipeline, the fate of natural resource communities rests in the hands of judges who are thousands of miles away. Rural Montana needs someone who is willing to stand against popular opinion and rule with impartiality according to the Constitution. Amy Coney Barrett is that person and we can't afford to wait a second longer for her confirmation. Doug Martens, Commissioner, Rosebud County\r\n\r\nConcerned Montana gun owners sincerely appreciate that President Trump has nominated such an eminently qualified jurist as Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court. We believe Judge Barrett will continue to view the words and concepts in the Constitution as the framers and adopters intended and understood them. We urge swift confirmation of Judge Barrett.  Gary Marbut, President, Montana Shooting Sports Association\r\n\r\nMontana Contractors Association enthusiastically supports the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court. Judge Barrett's nomination comes at a time when the construction industry, and business community at-large, face tremendous uncertainty in the midst of COVID-19 and a national election. The country needs stability during these tumultuous times and that begins with a predictable legal climate. Throughout her career, Judge Barret has demonstrated a faithful devotion to the constitution and a keen understanding of the Supreme Court's narrow role-to interpret the laws not make them. She's exactly who we need at this moment in history.  David Smith, Executive Director, Montana Contractor's Association\r\n\r\nMontana Petroleum Association is proud to support the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court. Judge Barrett's legal career is one marked by judicial restraint and a faithful adherence to the rule of law. These qualifications are a breath of fresh air for Montana energy producers and their dedicated employees who have experienced significant setbacks at the hands of activist courts. Judge Barret not only understands the consequence of judicial overreach but also possesses the humility to set aside her personal beliefs and rule according to the constitution. Acting as an effective check on the Executive and Legislative branches takes more than legal knowledge, it also requires the kind of courage possessed by Judge Barrett.  Alan Olson, Executive Director, Montana Petroleum Association\r\n\r\nThe Montana Building Industry Association (MBIA) supports President Trump's nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett as Associate Justice to the U.S. Supreme Court. Her career as a federal appellate judge and Notre Dame law professor has been long and distinguished. Judge Barrett's decisions have helped curb government overreach. She has ruled in favor of private property rights, and has helped provide certainty for small business owners. We look forward to her time as a Supreme Court Justice. And we thank Senator Daines for his support of her nomination, and his dedication to Montana's construction industry.  Steve Snezek, Executive Director, Montana Building Industry Association\r\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-judge-amy-coney-barretts-qualifications-character-are-indisputable-", "Daines: Judge Amy Coney Barretts Qualifications, Character are Indisputable", "2020-10-25", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.25.20\n\t\t\t Daines: Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Qualifications, Character are Indisputable  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines casts procedural vote to advance Judge Amy Coney Barrett's nomination, gives floor speech in support of confirmation\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today voted YES on a procedural voteto advance the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the United StatesSupreme Court. Daines also spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate in support of confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett to our nation's highest court.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor a clip of Daines' remarks click HERE. For full remarks click, HERE.\r\nAll Senate Democrats voted NO to advance Judge Barrett's nomination. If the proceduralvote failed, it would have stopped the confirmationof Judge Barrett from moving forward.\r\nExcerpts from Daines' remarks:\r\n\"Judge Barrett's qualifications and character are indisputable...\r\n\"Judge Barrett believes judges shouldn't legislate from the bench...\r\n\"She won't misuse her power as a judge to impose her policy preferences...\r\n\"And she won't twist the originaland truemeaning of the Constitution to advance a political agenda - of any kind...\r\n\"Judge Barrett will uphold our cherished constitutional rights, including the Second Amendment...\r\n\"Judge Barrett's strong record in support of the Second Amendment can give every law-abiding Montanan who owns a firearm, full confidence that she will NEVER allow the government to take away our guns...\r\n\"She will defend the Constitution and protect our Montana way of life, including our Montana jobs...\r\n\"Judge Barrett will not bend to the radical, fringe groups looking to kill Montana timber and coal jobs...\r\n\"She will be a fair-minded justice Montanans can be proud of...\r\n\"As a mother of seven children and a \"Minivan Mom,\" Judge Barrett is an inspiration to professional women, working moms and school-aged girls across Montana, who can feel certain, there is no American Dream that women can't achieve...\r\n\"As U.S. Senator for Montana, supporting Judge Barrett's confirmation to the Supreme Court is an easy call...\r\n\"She is someone who Montanans will be proud of, and will look up to on the Court...\"\r\n\r\nDaines meets with Judge Barrett on October 1st.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-introduces-senate-resolution-condemning-court-packing", "Daines Introduces Senate Resolution Condemning Court Packing", "2020-10-24", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.24.20\n\t\t\t Daines Introduces Senate Resolution Condemning Court Packing \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today introduced a Senateresolution condemning thepromises made by Democratic leaders to increase the number of Supreme Court Justices on the bench,known as court packing. Following introduction of the resolution,Daines spoke on the Senate floor about the importance of passing his resolution highlighting howcourt packing is an attack on theMontana way of life and howit undermines the separation of powers.\r\n\r\nClick HERE for a clip of the statement below, click HERE for full speech.\r\n\"Packing the Supreme Court by moving from the current 9 justices to 11 or 13 would essentially eliminate the Supreme Court from being a check and balance on Congress and the executive branch, paving the way for a radical, far left agenda put forth by Chuck Schumer and the Democrats if they get the majority.Packing the Supreme Court is a direct attack on our Montana way of life.Packing the Supreme Court with activist, liberal judges will help the far left radicals strip away our Second Amendment rights, destroy good paying energy and natural resources jobs, and cripple the Montana and American economy by blocking forest management and energy projects,\" Daines said.\r\nSenate Democrats blocked passage of Daines' resolution to condemn court packing and keep the court at nine seats.\r\nTo read Senator Daines' resolution, click HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nThere have been nine Supreme Court Justices on the bench for 151 years, since passage of the Judiciary Act of 1869.\r\nOn Wednesday, Daines spoke at a press conference condemning the Democrats plans to pack the Supreme Court.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-to-cdc-yellowstone-county-in-urgent-need-of-personnel-for-contact-tracing-assistance-send-additional-resources-asap", "Daines to CDC: Yellowstone County in Urgent Need of Personnel for Contact Tracing Assistance, Send Additional Resources ASAP", "2020-10-23", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.23.20\n\t\t\t Daines to CDC: Yellowstone County in Urgent Need of Personnel for Contact Tracing Assistance, Send Additional Resources ASAP \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today urged Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield to deploy medical personnel in Yellowstone County to provide contact tracing assistance as the county sees a dramatic spike in COVID-19 cases.\r\nI write to you today to bring to your attention a request from Yellowstone County, Montana, for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to deploy personnel to provide contact tracing assistance. I respectfully request that the CDC consider Montana's needs during this public health crisis and promptly accommodate Yellowstone County's request for assistance,Daines wrote.While our local public health leaders are working admirably to combat the spread of this virus, new cases are overwhelming its public health system, and additional support from the CDC to expand capacity for contact tracing would help Yellowstone County quickly identify new cases and break chains of transmission.\r\nSince the beginning of the pandemic, Yellowstone County has been one of the hardest hit counties in Montana, reporting the most cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the state due to COVID-19. Yellowstone County makes up 22% of all reported positive cases of COVID-19 in Montana as of October 16th, 2020.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to CDC Director Redfield, clickHERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-judge-amy-coney-barretts-unanimous-approval-out-of-the-judiciary-committee", "Daines Statement on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Unanimous Approval out of the Judiciary Committee", "2020-10-22", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.22.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Unanimous Approval out of the Judiciary Committee \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Full Senate to vote on confirmation in the coming days\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t \r\nU.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines issued the following statement afterthe nomination ofJudge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court was approved out of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The full United States Senate will vote on the confirmation in the coming days.\r\nJudge Amy Coney Barrett is one step closer to becoming Justice Amy Coney Barrett,\"Daines said.\"JudgeBarrett has a brilliant legal mind and she willuphold our constitutional rights, including the Second Amendment, and won't legislate from the bench. She is arole model for Montanans and working momsacross the country, and is someone Montanans would look up to on our highest court. I look forward to casting my vote to confirm Judge Barrett to the Supreme Court.\"\r\nDuring this morning's Senate Judiciary Committee business meeting to advance Judge Barrett's nomination to the Senate floor, all Committee Democrats boycotted the vote, which resulted in theCommittee unanimously approving Judge Barrett on a 12-0 vote.\r\nLast week, Daines met with several Northwest Montana businesswomen and community leaders to talk about the importance of Judge Barrett's confirmation.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/judiciary-committee-listens-to-daines-request-will-subpoena-twitter-facebook-following-allegations-of-election-interference", "Judiciary Committee Listens to Daines' Request, Will Subpoena Twitter, Facebook Following Allegations of Election Interference", "2020-10-22", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.22.20\n\t\t\t Judiciary Committee Listens to Daines' Request, Will Subpoena Twitter, Facebook Following Allegations of Election Interference \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S.SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Dainestodayannounced that following his request urging Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham and Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein to investigateallegations of election interference against social media giants Twitter and Facebook, the Senate Judiciary Committee will be issuing subpoenas to the two tech giants. Daines' request followed recent reports of Twitter and Facebook limiting access to a news story dealing with former Vice President Joe Biden's son and the suspension of a Trump campaign account.\r\nI'm glad the Senate Judiciary Committee listened to my direct request and will investigate Twitter and Facebook following allegations of them interfering in the upcoming election and suppressing Trump's campaign,Daines said.Social media platforms must be held to the same standard as any other organization and those involved must be held accountable if illegal activity occurred.\"\r\nIn recent weeks, political candidates and news sources have seen content and stories removed from social media websites based on loose and shifting guidelines leading to allegations of interference and coordination between major social media companies and political parties.\r\nTo read the letter Daines sent to Chairman Graham and Ranking Member Feinstein, clickHERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn Tuesday, Daines urged Senate Judiciary Chairman Graham and Ranking Member Feinstein to investigate the actions taken by social media corporations limiting or removing content of political candidates while either not following industry standards, failing to follow their own rules, or outright changing their rules to justify previous actions taken against candidates.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-introduces-montana-witness-at-senate-hearing-on-amtrak", "Daines Introduces Montana Witness at Senate Hearing on Amtrak", "2020-10-21", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.21.20\n\t\t\t Daines Introduces Montana Witness at Senate Hearing on Amtrak \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE Today in a U.S. Senate Commerce Committee hearing, Senator Steve Daines introduced Paul Tuss, a Havre resident and Executive Director of Bear Paw Development Corporation as a witness to speak on the importance of Amtrak services along the Hi-Line.\r\nTo watch Daines' introduction, clickHERE.\r\nIn Montana, the Empire Builder is essential to the local economy and provides folks along the Hi-Line their only access to the national transportation network. Like Paul, I am deeply concerned about the impact Amtrak's reductions in staff and service will have across the network and I led a bipartisan effort opposing the reductions in June, which included a Democrat member of this committee and had strong support from both labor unions and passenger associations,Daines said.I also filed an amendment to prohibit the reductions. As I noted in a letter to Senate leadership last month, daily service on the Empire Builder is essential to providing Montanans access to world class healthcare and is critical to our local economy by bringing thousands each year to visit our communities, pristine wilderness, and national parks.\r\nTuss shared his experiences with the Empire Builder and how critical daily service is for towns like Havre which depend on passenger rail access for their local economy and jobs, and direct, reliable transportation to world class healthcare.\r\nDuring the introduction, Daines touched on how critical Amtrak services are for Montanans living on the Hi-Line, and the need to guarantee the return of all staff as well as returning full daily service.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn October 19th, Amtrak officially moved forward with cutting Empire Builder services to three days a week.\r\nOnSeptember 24th, 2020, Daines introduced an Amendment that would stop Amtrak from instituting any service cuts, furloughs, or layoffs for the duration of the Continuing Resolution.\r\nOnSeptember 21st, 2020, Daines urgedSenate Leadershipto stop the reduction of services and staff for Amtrak along the Hi-Line, stressing the need to protectjobs and the local economy that Amtraksupports in Montana.\r\nOnJune 24th, 2020, Daines sent a bipartisan letter to the President of Amtrak opposing their plans to terminate one out of every five employees, putting thousands out of work, and reducing the hours of operation of the National network of long distance trains.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-to-introduce-senate-resolution-condemning-court-packing", "Daines to Introduce Senate Resolution Condemning Court Packing", "2020-10-21", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.21.20\n\t\t\t Daines to Introduce Senate Resolution Condemning Court Packing \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Packing the Supreme Court is an attack on the Montana way of life, separation of powers\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines is set to introducea Senateresolution condemning the promises made by Democratic leaders to increase the number of Supreme Court Justices on the bench,known as court packing. Daines is fighting to highlighthowcourt packing is an attackon theMontana way of life, Montana jobs,American democracy and the separation of powers.\r\n\r\nPacking the Supreme Court is a power grab by the Democrats and an attack on our Montana way of life, from protecting the Second Amendment to Montana energy jobs,Daines said.This goes against a 150 year precedent and would make the Court an extension of the legislative branch, which is what our Founding Fathers feared when they created the separation of powers.\r\nClickHEREto watch fullremarks.\r\n\r\nDaines, joined by several of his colleagues, gave remarks highlighting impacts of court packing in Montana: This will be an attack on the Second Amendment...it will also show what happens when you put liberal activist judges on the bench as we've seen in Montana, where there was a liberal judge that stopped the Keystone pipeline. It's liberal judges that stopped timber projects. They don't allow our loggers to be in our forests thinning them to prevent catastrophic wildfires...\r\nThere have been nine Supreme Court Justices on the bench for 151 years, since passage of the Judiciary Act of 1869.\r\nTo read a draft ofSenator Daines' resolution, clickHERE.\r\n\r\nThis week,Daines also cosponsoredSenatorCruz'sconstitutionalamendmentto restrict the number of justices on the Supreme Court to nine.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-to-governor-lack-of-communication-covid-19-relief-funding-for-mt-tribes-is-unacceptable", "Daines to Governor: Lack of Communication, COVID-19 Relief Funding for MT Tribes is Unacceptable", "2020-10-20", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.20.20\n\t\t\t Daines to Governor: Lack of Communication, COVID-19 Relief Funding for MT Tribes is Unacceptable \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t MT Tribes have received less than 1% of CRF money, No Tribal Leaders Sit on Governor's COVID-19 Advisory Committee\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today urged Governor Steve Bullock to improve communication with Montana Tribes and provide more relief funding to Tribal communities after an alarming report showed they have received less than 1% of funding from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) which was given to the state by the federal government.\r\nIndian Country has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is alarming that Montana's tribal governments have received less than $600,000 of the state's Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) allocation provided by the CARES Act, which was intended to help all Montanans,Daines wrote.It is disappointing that a lack of communication has led to a disparity in the amount of relief each tribal government has received. We simply cannot let bureaucracy stand in the way of much needed aid.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to the Governor, clickHERE.\r\nMontana's tribes have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, a report was released showing that while Montana's native population consists of 7% of the state's residents, Montana's tribes make up one third of overall COVID-19 deaths in the state.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-senate-judiciary-committee-to-investigate-social-media-companies-following-allegations-of-election-interference", "Daines Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Investigate Social Media Companies Following Allegations of Election Interference", "2020-10-20", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.20.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges Senate Judiciary Committee to Investigate Social Media Companies Following Allegations of Election Interference \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Tech giants such as Twitter, Facebook limiting access to news sources, changing rules to justify removal of political content\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Dainestodayurged Senate Judiciary Chairman Graham and RankingMember Feinstein to investigatethe actions taken by social media corporations limiting or removing content of political candidates while either not following industry standards, failing to follow their own rules, or outright changing their rules to justify previous actions taken against candidates. Daines' request follows recent reports of Twitter and Facebook limiting access to a news story dealing with former Vice President Joe Biden's son and the suspension of a Trump Campaign account.\r\nRecent events have brought forward a troubling pattern where social media companies have failed to follow industry standards, failed to follow their own rules, or have changed their rules to justify previous actions. This pattern has overwhelmingly led to the removal of content or users favoring one candidate over another,Daines wrote.This raises serious questions of illegal coordination or election interference. With so much information pertinent to the upcoming election flowing through these companies, it is of paramount importance that online companies are held to the same laws and accountability as the rest of the nation.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Chairman Graham and Ranking Member Feinstein, clickHERE.\r\nIn recent weeks, political candidates and news sources have seen content and stories removed from social media websites based on loose and shifting guidelines leading to allegations of interference and coordination between major social media companies and political parties.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-immediate-assessment-of-montana-covid-19-situation-medical-assistance-additional-support-from-fema", "Daines Urges Immediate Assessment of Montana COVID-19 Situation, Medical Assistance, Additional Support from FEMA", "2020-10-19", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.19.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges Immediate Assessment of Montana COVID-19 Situation, Medical Assistance, Additional Support from FEMA \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines is urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to conduct an assessment of Montana's COVID-19 situation and asking for additional federal assistance to help mitigate the impacts of the pandemic.\r\nMontana is currently experiencing a regional surge of COVID-19 cases. Nationally, we have the third highest rate of new cases and the second highest rate of test positivity. Last week, an average of 84% of hospitals in Montana reported either new confirmed or new suspected COVID-19 patients each day,Daines wrote.As Montana is experiencing a record number of positive COVID-19 cases and our hospitals across the state are reaching capacity, I respectfully request FEMA to conduct a needs assessment and consider providing additional federal relief that will protect the health of Montanans, including those in our rural and tribal communities, and support our local and state officials who are on the front lines of this public health crisis.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Regional Administrator dePalo, clickHERE.\r\nFor more information on COVID-19 data in Montana, clickHERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/montana-ridge-named-honor-airmen-who-died-crash", "Montana ridge named in honor of airmen who died in crash", "2020-10-15", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "An area of Montana countryside where four Air Force pilots crashed and died in 1962 was named in honor of the fallen service members.\n\n\tPresident Donald Trump signed the B-47 Designation Act Tuesday naming the area east of Paradise Valley the B-47 Ridge, the Bozeman Daily ChroniclereportedTuesday.\n\n\tThe legislation honors Capt. Bill Faulconer, Lt. Fred Hixenbaugh, Lt. David Sutton and Lt. Lloyd Sawyers, who died during a training mission.\n\n\tThe crew flew a B-47 bomber from an air base in Texas on July 23, 1962, but never returned after the plane crashed into the ridge located north of Yellowstone National Park.\n\n\tMembers of the Montana congressional delegation including Republicans Rep. Greg Gianforte and Sen. Steve Daines and Democratic Sen. Jon Tester introduced the legislation in 2018.\n\t\n\t\tThe U.S. Senate passed the bill in February and the House approved the provisions in September.\n\t\n\t\n\t\tAfter almost six decades, it was an honor to get this bipartisan bill signed into law that will forever recognize the brave men who tragically died in the B-47 Bomber crash near Emigrant Peak, Daines said in a statement.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/usda-announces-outdoor-research-brucellosis", "USDA announces outdoor research on brucellosis", "2020-10-15", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Brucellosis research will expand to outdoor settings in the greater Yellowstone area, the United States Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday.\nUSDA under secretary Greg Ibach announced the new research projects in front of stacks of hay at a ranch north of Belgrade. Ibach said the new testing guidelines will help the effort to eliminate brucellosis from the United States.\nThis policy change will allow us to manage it and provide oversight in the research projects and be able to start the march to a solution, Ibach said.\nAbout two decades ago, Ibach said, outdoor research on brucellosis stopped because of concerns of how the disease affects people. That meant research could only be conducted on infected animals in contained, indoor settings.\nAllowing research to happen outdoors means the USDA, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of Homeland Security, could better identify what Ibach called an efficacious treatment that will initiate immunity.\nObviously we need real-life conditions, Ibach said. We need elk to be out in their semi-natural habitat. We need bison to be able to function in more of a natural habitat. Being able to move those out of containment into a controlled environment is going to be very important.\nBrucellosis is an infectious disease that apears in elk, bison and cattle. It could be transmitted to humans via undercooked meat or unpasteurized dairy products, causing a prolonged fever, per the CDC. But it poses a greater risk to animals.\nIf infected, animals could have reduced milk production, weak offspring or spontaneous abortion, according to the USDA.\nIbach said brucellosis has been wiped out from most of the country except in the greater Yellowstone area. Bison and elk are known carriers of the disease in the region.\nRanchers worry of the disease infecting cattle. There have been no recorded transmissions of the disease between bison and cattle in the wild. Elk have transmitted the disease, though.\nSen. Steve Daines, who is running for reelection against Gov. Steve Bullock, and Rep. Greg Gianforte, who is running for governor against Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney, were both at Wednesday's announcement.\nThis is ensuring that we're protecting our cattle here in Montana from brucellosis, Daines said, which is a significant threat to the safety of the food supply chain here in Montana and around the country and around the world for that matter.\nIn an industry that's already under price pressure, Gianforte said, the threat of brucellosis in our production herds just adds the risk of additional costs and economic disaster for these producers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-daines-celebrate-repairs-milk-river-project", "Gianforte, Daines Celebrate Repairs to Milk River Project", "2020-10-15", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) and U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) today celebrated the successful structure completion of Drop 2 and Drop 5 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the junction of the St. Mary's diversion and the Milk River.\nThis is really fabulous that water is flowing through the Milk River project, flowing life back to the Hi-Line. This project is so important because over 100,000 acres irrigated out of the Milk River, five communities, and two Tribal governments rely on it for their domestic water, Gianforte said. When it failed in May, people weren't sure their faucets were going to work anymore. It got fixed because of collaboration, and we're here to celebrate that.\n\nWe've officially got water running again through the Saint Mary's Canal! I'm glad to have helped speed this project along to support our Montana farmers, ranchers, Tribes and Hi-Line communities, Daines said. Today was a great day and the culmination of hard work to quickly rebuild the Drop two and five structures will ensure Montanans on the Hi-Line have reliable access to water once again.\nBackground:\nOn July 30, 2020, Gianforte secured funding for the critical repairs needed on the St. Mary Canal.\nIn July 2020, Gianforte wrote to the Department of Interior, readdressing the need to rapidly respond to the St. Mary's River Project's Drop 5 failure.\nOn May 18, 2020, Gianforte urged President Trump to act quickly to fix the Drop 5 failure of the St. Mary Canal.\nOn May 12, 2020, Gianforte urged House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to address the nation's critical water needs in any infrastructure package.\nIn March 2020, the St. Mary's Rehabilitation Working Group and the Milk River Joint Board thanked Gianforte for his support and his efforts to have the St. Mary Diversion Dam rehabilitated.\nIn February 2020, Gianforte testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee about including the St. Mary Diversion Dam in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020.\nIn May 2019, Gianforte introduced the bipartisan St. Mary's Reinvestment Act to ensure that the federal government picks up 75 percent of the costs for upgrades to the Milk River Project.\nIn April 2018, Gianforte wrote to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation in support of the Milk River Project Joint Board of Control's grant proposal to replace Drop 2.\nAt an April 2018 congressional hearing, Gianforte secured a commitment from Dr. Timothy Petty, Assistant Interior Secretary, that he will work to ensure a cost share agreement with Montana is reached to rehabilitate the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Conveyance Works.\nIn March 2018, Gianforte asked House appropriations leaders to fund work on the St. Mary system.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/next-step-eradicate-brucellosis", "The Next Step To Eradicate Brucellosis", "2020-10-14", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is issuing a draft policy statement through the Federal Select Agent Program (FSAP) on research with Brucella species in outdoor settings. The policy statement will allow researchers to conduct brucellosis studies in large animals that cannot be easily housed or studied indoors. The ability to conduct outdoor host animal studies involving swine, elk, bison, and cattle will help APHIS gain important tools and information to continue with brucellosis eradication.\nAt the request of Senator Daines of Montana, animal health experts, and livestock industry stakeholders, we have worked closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Homeland Security, and other leaders in the Greater Yellowstone area to ensure we can safely conduct the kinds of outdoor research studies we need in order to advance our ability to control and eradicate brucellosis,  said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Greg Ibach. I'm happy to share this draft policy today, as it will help us continue eradication efforts in key wildlife areas.'\nIbach was joined by Senator Steve Daines and Congressman Greg Gianforte when he made the announcement at a ranch outside of Belgrade, MT.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-usda-announce-new-brucellosis-testing-guidelines-critical-for-montana-ag", "Daines, USDA Announce New Brucellosis Testing Guidelines Critical for Montana Ag", "2020-10-14", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.14.20\n\t\t\t Daines, USDA Announce New Brucellosis Testing Guidelines Critical for Montana Ag \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines receives award from Montana Farm Bureau for his work supporting Montana Ag\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t MONTANAU.S. Senator Steve Dainesjoined United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Greg Ibach today at a ranch outside of Belgrade toannounce new testing guidelines for brucellosis which will help expand research and improve efforts to eradicate the disease and reduce its impacts on Montana ranchers and Montana agriculture.\r\nFor TV elements of the announcement, clickHERE\r\nDaines was joined by Montana agriculture leaders including the Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Farm Bureau Federation, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, and other stakeholders. Before this policy change, researchers could only study animals infected with brucellosis in a contained indoor facility, limiting researchers' ability to study livestock and wildlife.\r\nAt the announcement,Daines was awarded the Friend of Farm Bureau award by the Montana Farm Bureau Federation for his supportand work on behalfof Montana agriculture in theU.S.Senate.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/delegations-b-47-designation-bill-signed-into-law-by-president-trump", "Delegations B-47 Designation Bill Signed into Law by President Trump", "2020-10-13", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.13.20\n\t\t\t Delegation's B-47 Designation Bill Signed into Law by President Trump \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill names Ridge near Emigrant Peak after Four Fallen Servicemen\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. CONGRESS U.S. Senators Steve Daines, Jon Tester and Congressman Gianforte today celebrated President Trump signing their bipartisan bill into law that will name a ridge near Emigrant Peak the B-47 Ridge in honor of four servicemen who tragically died in a B-47 Bomber crash.\r\nAfter almost six decades, it was an honor to get this bipartisan bill signed into law that will forever recognize the brave men who tragically died in the B-47 Bomber crash near Emigrant Peak,Daines said.I want to thank President Trump for signing this historic bill into law, and I look forward to visiting the B-47 Ridge in the future to remember the men we lost that day.\r\nThe President did right by the brave men whose lives were cut short on that tragic night years ago, by signing our bipartisan bill into law today,said Tester.Dedicating this ridge to the four servicemen who lost their lives while serving our country will keep them alive in the memories of Montanans for generations.\r\nI'm grateful President Trump today signed our bipartisan bill into law. By naming the crash site B-47 Ridge, we are forever honoring the four fallen airmen who lost their lives 58 years ago in selfless service to our country,Gianforte said.\r\nOn July 23, 1962, a B-47 Bomber originating from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas carrying four men on a routine training mission crashed into the southwestern slope of Emigrant Peak, killing everyone on board. Capt. Bill Faulconer, Lt. Lloyd Sawyers, Lt. David Sutton, and Lt. Fred Hixenbaugh all tragically lost their lives serving our country.\r\nTheir legislation passed out of the Senate in February and out of the House last month.\r\nStatements of Support:\r\nThank you Senator Daines for taking the lead on the B-47 Ridge Designation Act. Thank you Senator Tester and Representative Gianforte for Cosponsoring. This is a wonderful piece of legislation for the five young children that lost their fathers in this tragic event fifty eight years ago for the widows, siblings, grandchildren and all other family members that paid a huge price for us all. So proud that Montana and Park County care about our veterans and their families.- Bryan Wells\r\nThank you Congressman Gianforte, and SenatorsDaines and Tester for your bipartisan leadership in making this federal designation a reality. I am proud that I was able to play a small part in the memorialization of these four American heroes, and forever grateful for the B-47 Ridge designation. Keith Joiner, Past Commander, VFW Post 5159 Hot Springs, Montana\r\nI would like to express my support and sincere gratitude for the B-47 Ridge Designation Act. Our brave service men and women are often easily forgotten, but this act will forever memorialize the brave soldiers that lost their life serving this great nation. Brad W. Bichler, Sheriff, Park County\r\nThe Board of Commissioners believe that the Act provides a fitting memorial to those Air Force service men who lost their lives in 1962 during a training mission above Emigrant Peak in Park County. This memorial will be a source of comfort to surviving family members, and a source of community pride in honoring the dedication of those who were lost while serving their country. Park County Commissioners\r\nBackground:\r\nOnSeptember 21st, 2020, Daines, Tester and Gianforte celebrated House passage of their bipartisan bill renaming the B-47 Ridge in honor of four fallen servicemen.\r\nIn June, Gianforte and Bryan Wells, chairman of the B-47 Memorial Committee and a resident of Emigrant,testifiedbefore a House Natural Resources subcommittee in support of the bill. The full committee reported the bill on September 14.\r\nOnFebruary 13th, 2020, Daines, Tester and Gianforte celebrated Senate passage of their bipartisan bill renaming the B-47 Ridge in honor of four fallen servicemen.\r\nOnDecember 12th, 2019,Daines voted to advance his bipartisan bill to name the B-47 Ridge in honor of the four servicemen who lost their lives in an Air Force B-47 Bomber crash in Montana out of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.\r\nOnMay 14th, 2019, Daines urged lawmakers for swift passage of the B-47 Ridge Designation Act in a U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing.\r\nOnFebruary 2nd, 2019, Daines, Tester and Gianforte reintroduced the B-47 Ridge Designation Act.\r\nOnJune 8th, 2018,Daines, Tester and Gianforte first introduced the B47 Ridge Designation Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-calls-on-hhs-to-provide-ppe-medical-equipment-to-montana-asap", "Daines Calls on HHS to Provide PPE, Medical Equipment to Montana ASAP", "2020-10-09", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.09.20\n\t\t\t Daines Calls on HHS to Provide PPE, Medical Equipment to Montana ASAP \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE Yesterday, U.S. Senator Steve Daines urged U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar andHHSAssistant Secretary for Preparedness and ResponseRobert Kadlec to ensure Montana hasthe medical supplies and medicines needed as the state is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases.\r\nI write to you today to encourage the expeditious review of Montana's requests for supplies and medicines from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to ensure our health care system, first responders, and care facilities are equipped to handle the COVID-19 crisis,Daines wrote.As our state is currently experiencing a regional surge in COVID-19 cases, I would urge you to consider Montana's unique health care needs to ensure we have the personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, and other medical equipment necessary to care for patients and combat the coronavirus.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to HHS leaders, clickHERE.\r\nMontana is currently in the top five in the nation in new cases per capita of COVID-19 with total cases doubling over the past month.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-demands-investigation-following-deaths-in-whitefish-nursing-home", "Daines Demands Investigation Following Deaths in Whitefish Nursing Home", "2020-10-08", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines Demands Investigation Following Deaths in Whitefish Nursing Home \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Dainestodaycalled on Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma to investigate the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation facility following apattern of serious noncompliance with federal regulations andthe deaths of multiple residents following a COVID-19 outbreak.\r\n\r\nAs someone who wants to ensure that our most vulnerable are protected, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, I urge you to further investigate the circumstances surrounding these deaths and re-evaluate this facility's suitability to continue providing care as well as whether the state survey agency properly enforced the regulations in place to protect residents,Daines wrote.In light of these disturbing developments, I request your immediate attention into this matter and a report of your findings, including recommendations to ensure the health and safety of residents moving forward.\r\n\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Administrator Verma, clickHERE.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\n\r\nClickHEREto read more about issues relating to the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Facility.\r\n\r\nClickHEREto read more about the families who reported issues with the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Facility.\r\n\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-introduces-senate-resolution-honoring-bravery-sacrifice-of-montana-wildland-firefighters-and-first-responders", "Daines Introduces Senate Resolution Honoring Bravery, Sacrifice of Montana Wildland Firefighters & First Responders", "2020-10-06", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.06.20\n\t\t\t Daines Introduces Senate Resolution Honoring Bravery, Sacrifice of Montana Wildland Firefighters & First Responders \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines introduced a Senate resolution to recognize the bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of wildland firefighters and first responders across Montana and the nation. The resolution honors those who have lost their lives this fire season, including Montanans Tom Duffy and Sara Madsen.  This wildfire season has brought horrific loss of lives and property, and it would have been even worse if it weren't for our brave firefighters and first responders on the front lines. It's an honor to recognize our Montana heroes who risk their lives every day to protect our communities from wildfires, Daines said. This resolution also serves to honor and extend condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives protecting Montana communities from wildfires, including Tom Duffy and Sara Madsen. To read the resolution, click HERE. This wildfire season has been intense and has caused severe damage to forests, property, and even loss of life. Over 35 people have died and over 4,000 properties destroyed as wildfires continue to burn. Over 30,000 wildland firefighters and military have been mobilized and are continuing to fight fires throughout Montana, California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and other states.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-introduces-bill-to-protect-over-9500-montana-veterans-from-losing-health-care", "Daines Introduces Bill to Protect Over 9,500 Montana Veterans from Losing Health Care", "2020-10-05", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.05.20\n\t\t\t Daines Introduces Bill to Protect Over 9,500 Montana Veterans from Losing Health Care \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  Last week, U.S. Senator Steve Daines introduced the TRICARE Retired Protection Act to ensure that Montana's 9,500 military retirees will not lose health care as a result of new policy changes taking effect January 1st, 2021.\r\nOur Montana veterans dedicated their lives to defending our freedom and way of life. We must do all we can to ensure our retired Montana heroes have the healthcare they earned, Daines said. That's why I introduced my bill to prevent Montana veterans from losing coverage.\r\nIn 2017, Congress enacted a series of personnel reforms proposed by former Defense Secretary Ash Carter under the Obama Administration, including new fees on TRICARE health plans for beneficiaries who do not receive care at a military treatment facility and an open season enrollment period mirroring Obama's Affordable Care Act.\r\nThis month, military retirees in Montana received notices that beneficiaries who fail to establish a monthly payment plan between November 9, 2020 and December 14, 2020, would only be able to receive care at a military facility on a space-available basis. Calls and letters received by Senator Daines' office expressed frustration from veterans caught unaware by the changes. One leading veteran service organization has appealed to Congress and DoD for relief to help veterans adjust to the new changes.\r\nMilitary retirees are showing support for Daines' legislation.\r\n\"After 18 years in the United States Air Force, in 1985, I retired as a Master Sergeant. When I enlisted and again when I retired, I was told that my family and I would have medical care covered for life. As I retired from the Military they gave me the option to get Tricare free of charge, which I gladly took. Now years later, a one page letter that could have easily been thrown away as junk mail, came in with information that I would have approximately 3 weeks between November and December to call and arrange for payments of $25 per month for Tricare, or lose my coverage. This is the first I have heard of this and I am concerned for those military retirees who have not seen the letter and have no idea they may lose their medical insurance. The letter states that if we do not call in, we will lose Tricare and have the option of going to a local military hospital. The DOD rules indicate that to be seen as a retiree at a military hospital you must live within 40 miles of that hospital. Here in Montana that is almost an impossibility for most military retirees. This mandate should be rescinded and at the very least military retirees should be allowed up to a year to call in to be certain the medical insurance and care for themselves and their families is continued as promised.\"  John Shelman, Missoula\r\nFor more information on TRICARE changes, or to establish a payment plan, click here.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/fix-sidney-and-kinsey-irrigation-districts-heads-president-trump", "Fix for Sidney and Kinsey Irrigation Districts Heads to President Trump", "2020-10-02", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The U.S. House of Representatives yesterday unanimously passed a measure from Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) to ensure the Sidney and Kinsey Irrigation Districts continue receiving affordable power that enables irrigation.\nThis critical legislation ensures many family farms in Eastern Montana have access to reliable irrigation, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law, Gianforte said. Agriculture is Montana's top industry, and I'll continue working hard to protect it.\nThis is about protecting Montana ag jobs and Montana family farms, said Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) who introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate in June 2019. I'm glad to see my bill which ensures the 130 family farms in Kinsey and Sidney are able to continue use of Pick-Sloan power pass the U.S. House today. I thank Congressman Gianforte for his leadership in the House, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law. \nSidney and Kinsey serve more than 130 family farms that irrigate nearly 12,000 acres of farmland in eastern Montana. These fields produce hay, corn, potatoes, soybeans, and peas, and nearly 4,800 of the acres are sugar beets produced for Sidney Sugars, Inc. The operations from Kinsey also helps feed more than 20,000 cattle a year.\nThe measure passed as part of a Senate bill, S.3758. The bill now goes to President Trump's desk to be signed into law.\nCelebrating the bill's progress, Doug Martin, Board President of Kinsey Irrigation Company, said: On behalf of Kinsey Irrigation Company I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Congressman Gianforte, Senator Daines, and the entire Montana delegation for diligently pursuing a Legislative solution to non-renewal of our contract with Bureau of Reclamation that ended a 75-year relationship. Congressman Gianforte heeded our call after all other remedies had been exhausted. This legislation will allow over 80 families to continue to draw a livelihood from agriculture by providing affordable electricity to irrigate 6600 acres in the Yellowstone River valley. The dollars generated from these acres are circulated many times over and are important to the economy in our county of 12,000.\nIn June 2019, Gianforte introduced H.R. 3471 to make available the continued use of Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program project use power by the Kinsey Irrigation Company and the Sidney Water Users Irrigation District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-meets-with-president-trumps-supreme-court-nominee-judge-amy-coney-barrett", "Daines Meets with President Trump's Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "10.01.20\n\t\t\t Daines Meets with President Trump's Supreme Court Nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  Today, U.S. Senator Steve Daines met with President Trump's nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Amy Coney Barrett.\r\n  For more photos, click HERE  For TV elements and pictures of the meeting, click HERE Judge Amy Coney Barrett is a brilliant jurist and a minivan mom... she is the kind of jurist that Montanans will look up to, someone they'd want on the Supreme Court, Daines said. During our meeting, we talked extensively about our Founding Fathers' vision for the Second Amendment as an individual right to bear arms and what that means for our Montana way of life. We talked about the importance of preventing liberal West coast governors from killing Montana coal and energy jobs. I believe Judge Barrett will be faithful to the Constitution, and she has my full support to become our next Supreme Court Justice.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-marks-national-suicide-awareness-month", "Gianforte Marks National Suicide Awareness Month", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) today spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to mark National Suicide Awareness Month.\nUnfortunately, Montanans are all too familiar with the epidemic of suicide, Gianforte said. As we have faced this ongoing public health and economic crisis, the demand for mental health services has grown. In Gallatin County, crisis response therapists have experienced a higher volume of calls. Each month, they receive more calls than the month before from people needing help.\nLast week, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed two suicide prevention bills from Gianforte.\nGianforte's bipartisan National Suicide Hotline Designation Act makes 9-8-8 the universal telephone number for the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system, which operates through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Veterans Crisis Line. Gianforte introduced the bill in August 2019 with U.S. Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), Chris Stewart (R-Utah), and Seth Moulton (D-Mass.).\nGianforte's bipartisan Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act sets up an educational campaign to raise awareness for 9-8-8, suicide prevention resources, and more effective discourse on how to prevent suicide. Gianforte introduced the legislation with U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) in October 2019.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-grassley-roberts-introduce-updated-bill-to-end-abuse-of-conservation-easements", "Daines, Grassley, Roberts Introduce Updated Bill to End Abuse of Conservation Easements", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.30.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Grassley, Roberts Introduce Updated Bill to End Abuse of Conservation Easements \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill protects program that promotes conservation, stops scam artists from ripping off American taxpayers\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley of Iowa, and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts of Kansas re-introduced the\"Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act,\"which will protect conservation easements from abuse, save taxpayers billions of dollars, and promoteconservationinMontana and the U.S.\r\n\"This is about promoting conservation in Montana, saving taxpayers billions of dollars and stopping scam artists from abusing a critical conservation program used across the country,\" Daines said. \"I will fight to pass this important legislation and protect Montana farmers and ranchers who are guided by a good-faith desire to boost conservation, not their own wallets.\r\nSen. Wyden and I found in our recent report on syndicated conservation-easement transactions that Congress should take further action to end these abusive schemes.This bill makes clear they are not allowed under our tax laws.The IRS shamed these scammers by publicly listing these transactions, but the continued growth in their numbers shows that shame alone won't do the trick. The IRS and the Department of Justice will continue to do their job enforcing the law. Now it's the job of Congress to clearly prohibit these abusive schemes.  Sen. Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa)\r\nThis legislation confronts the well-documented abuse of syndicated conservation easement transactions and, by extension, protects the true integrity of the program. These abusive transactions come at significant expense to American taxpayers and undermine the family farms and ranches that use conservation easements as a legitimate charitable tool, Roberts said. Congress should act quickly and pass this bill this year.\r\nDespite increased enforcement from the IRS, recent IRS data shows the total amount of deductions claimed through these tax shelters increased from $6.8 billion in 2017 to $9.2 billion in 2018.\r\nTheCharitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act,whichtracks an IRS Listing Notice published in December 2016, would generally disallow a charitable deduction if it exceeds 2.5 times (250%) of a partner's original investment, but includes other measures to tighten the bill's requirements. The bill preserves this deduction for people with true charity and conservation in mind, including for family farms and ranches.\r\nTo read the bill text, click HERE.\r\nTo review a technical summary of the changes to the new legislation, click HERE.\r\nOrganizations that support Daines' current legislation include the Land Trust Alliance, Ducks Unlimited, and the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.\r\nBackground:\r\nIn late August, Daines renewed efforts to advance his bipartisan bill following the conclusion of a U.S. Senate Finance Committee investigation into abusive syndicated conservation easements. This updated legislation is the product of months of discussions with the Joint Committee on Taxation and stakeholders on how to ensure that the bill closes all loopholes that fraudsters might find to get around the new requirements.\r\nOn August 25th, 2020, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Grassley and Ranking Member Ron Wyden of Oregon released a bipartisan report on their 16-month investigation into the abuse of syndicated conservation-easement transactions.\r\nOn June 30th, 2020, Daines asked IRS Commissioner Rettig about the importance of passing his bipartisan Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act in a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing.\r\nOn January 17th, 2019, Daines introduced the bipartisan Charitable Conservation Easement Program Integrity Act of 2019, a bill that would curb abuses of the popular conservation easement tax benefit while allowing it to continue to serve as an important tool for conserving land and protecting family farms and ranches.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/news-daines-to-bring-doe-secretary-brouillette-to-colstrip", "NEWS: Daines to Bring DOE Secretary Brouillette to Colstrip", "2020-09-29", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.29.20\n\t\t\t NEWS: Daines to Bring DOE Secretary Brouillette to Colstrip \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that he is bringing U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette to Colstripthis weekto meet directly withMontanans to discuss the importance of Montana energy jobs.\r\nI'm excited to welcome Secretary Brouillette to Colstripto meet with hardworking Montanans and talk about the importance of supporting Montana energy jobs and having a diverse energy portfolio, Daines said.\r\nSenator Daines has long fought for the high paying Montana energy jobs at the Colstrip Power Plant and the Rosebud Coal Mine. Daines has been a leader in the senate on finding solutions, like Carbon Capture technology that will reduce emissions and protect and grow jobs in communities like Colstrip.\r\nMore details to come.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines is a sponsor of several bills that could help support Colstrip and Montana communities:\r\nS. 1201: The EFFECT Act This bipartisan bill has passed the Senate Energy Committee unanimously. It would direct DOE to research and develop carbon capture, utilization and storage technologies (CCUS). It would also create a large scale demonstration project at an existing plant. We hope that when this bill passes we can bring that project to Montana to create new CCUS jobs.\r\nS. 383: The USE IT Act This bipartisan bill recently passed the Senate as part of the yearly National Defense Authorization Act. The bill directs the EPA to establish a program to incentivize direct air carbon capture technology and how to take the carbon and create a commercial project. This means that we could remove carbon from the air and then sell it in various commercial products like cement, insulation or even other fuels. This would create jobs and spur the economy.\r\nS. 2263: The CO2 Regulatory Certainty ActandS. 407: The Carbon Capture Modernization ActThese bills provide clarity, expand, and extend the 45Q tax credit, which is a tax incentive for the development of CCUS technology. Instead of taxing our way out of a problem we can incentivize new solutions and create jobs through the 45Q tax credit. Portions of these bills have already been enacted administratively.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-judge-barrett-outstanding-choice-serve-us-supreme-court", "Gianforte: Judge Barrett Is an Outstanding Choice To Serve on the U.S. Supreme Court", "2020-09-26", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) released the following statement after President Trump nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to the U.S. Supreme Court:\nJudge Amy Coney Barrett is an outstanding choice to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Judge Barrett's stellar qualifications and exceptional record demonstrate she will uphold our Constitution and interpret our nation's laws, not make policy from the bench. President Trump made an excellent choice with Judge Barrett, and the Senate should swiftly, and without petty politics, consider and confirm her.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-president-trumps-supreme-court-nomination", "Daines Statement on President Trumps Supreme Court Nomination", "2020-09-26", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.26.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on President Trump's Supreme Court Nomination \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today issued the statement below following President Donald Trump's announcement of Amy Coney Barrett as his nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court:\r\nJudge Barrett is a conservative, well qualified judge, who has faithfully honored and defended the Constitution, Daines said. Judge Barrett will defend our Montana way of life from those that want to take away our 2nd Amendment rights and destroy our jobs. Nearly three years ago I voted to confirm Judge Barrett to the Seventh Circuit Court, and I now look forward to casting my vote to confirm Judge Barrett to the United States Supreme Court.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/department-of-labor-acts-on-daines-request-to-allow-montana-job-corps-centers-to-return-to-in-person-learning", "Department of Labor Acts on Daines Request to Allow Montana Job Corps Centers to Return to In Person Learning", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.25.20\n\t\t\t Department of Labor Acts on Daines' Request to Allow Montana Job Corps Centers to Return to In Person Learning \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senate  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the Department of Labor (DOL) released a plan to allow students enrolled at Montana Job Corps Centers to safely return for in person learning. This follows Daines' request to the administration.\r\nI'm so glad to see the Department of Labor act on my request to provide in person learning for students enrolled at Montana Job Corps Centers, Daines said. Job Corps centersprovide valuable educational and vocational training in skilled trades to folks all across our state. I'm glad that our Job Corps students can return to in person learning to prepare them to fill good paying, high demand jobs that are critical to Montana's economy.\r\nYesterday, Daines sent a letter calling on the DOL to allow students to return to in person learning as a majority of Job Corps careers are hands on and require in person training.\r\nTo read the Department of Labor's announcement, click HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nLast year, Daines was instrumental in saving Montana Job Corps Centers after there was news of them shutting down.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-continues-push-to-extend-census-deadline", "Daines Continues Push to Extend Census Deadline", "2020-09-24", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.24.20\n\t\t\t Daines Continues Push to Extend Census Deadline \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines todayjoined a bipartisan bill that would extend the Census field collection data deadline from September 30th, 2020 to October 31st, 2020.\r\n\r\nThe 2020 Census will have a lasting impact on Montana; including the distribution of federal resources to the state and even the potential for more representation in Congress, Daines said. We must extend the census deadline to October 31st to ensure a proper count is completed in Montana.\r\nTo view the bill, click HERE.\r\n\r\nMuch of Montana remains historically undercounted. Ensuring an accurate census count is critical to potentially gaining additional Congressional representation and securing federal resources for Montana communities.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\n\r\nLast Wednesday, Daines announced that he had successfully secured additional support and resources from the Trump administration to improve Montana's census count, including more than 250 enumerators working to count Montanans.\r\n\r\nEarlier this month, Daines sent a letter urging the administration to direct additional census resources to Montana in the final weeks of the field data collection operation to ensure all Montanans are represented.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-covid-19-nursing-home-report-confirms-daines-bill-critical-to-helping-mt-seniors", "Senate COVID-19 Nursing Home Report Confirms Daines' Bill Critical to Helping MT Seniors", "2020-09-24", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.24.20\n\t\t\t Senate COVID-19 Nursing Home Report Confirms Daines' Bill Critical to Helping MT Seniors \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Bill would provide PPE and testing, promote health and safety in long-term care facilities\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE  Yesterday, the Senate Finance Committee released a report on care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemicthat highlightedthe need for Senator Daines' bill to help nursing homes promptly identify and contain outbreaks of COVID-19. Daines' bill wouldhelp ensure Montana's nursing homes and assisted living facilities are equipped to purchasepersonal protective equipment (PPE) and support diagnostic testing in order to protect our most vulnerable.\r\n\r\nMontana seniors are some of the most at risk in our communities during this public health emergency. As we continue to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, it's clear from this reportthat more must be done to protect nursing home residents and those in long-term care facilities, Daines said. The report includes specific recommendations for Congress to better protect older Montanans, including my legislation to provide federal assistance for testing and PPE. I will continue fighting to ensure our nursing homes and assisted living facilities are equipped to keep Montana's seniors safe, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.\r\n\r\nTo access the full report from the Senate Finance Committee, click HERE. \r\n\r\nThe report details nursing home performance during the first eight months of the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are assisted living facilities that have provided high quality care for their residents, others have been overwhelmed during the COVID-19 outbreak.The report also recommends policies that will promote the health and safety of older Americans living in long-term care facilities, including Daines' legislation, that would help identify and contain outbreaks of COVID-19 and authorize Elder Justice Act programs.\r\n\r\nIn July, Daines and Senator Grassley introduced the Emergency Support for Nursing Homes and Elder Justice Reform Act of 2020 to support the health and safety of Montana seniors during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and extend funding for vital Elder Justice Act programs.\r\n\r\nBackground: \r\n\r\nDaines has been fighting to ensure Montana continues to be transparent when reporting the number of cases and deaths due to COVID-19 in nursing homes and extended living facilities including calling on the Governor to report those numbers publicly. That same day, those numbers were reported on the Montana Department of Health and Human Services website and continue to be updated weekly.\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE. \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-daines-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-montana-veterans-from-scam-artists-passes-senate-committee", "Daines Bipartisan Bill to Protect Montana Veterans from Scam Artists Passes Senate Committee", "2020-09-23", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.23.20\n\t\t\t  Daines' Bipartisan Bill to Protect Montana Veterans from Scam Artists Passes Senate Committee \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that hisbipartisan bill protecting Montana veterans and their families from pension poachers passed out of theU.S. Senate Veterans Affairs Committee.\r\n\r\n\"The fact that scam artists are taking advantageofMontana veterans -our nation'sheroes - and their families isbeyond disappointing. It's reprehensible,\"Daines said. \"I'm glad to see my bipartisanbill which will protect Montana veterans and their families frompension poachers is one step closer to being signed into law. I willalways stand with Montana veterans, and will keep fighting until we get this done.\"\r\nDaines' bipartisan bill will now move to the fullU.S. Senate for a vote.\r\n\r\nDaines introduced his bipartisan pension-poaching bill after he was approached by Patricia Pardue, a widow of a Montana veteran, who saw nearly all of her pension benefits stripped by a scam-artist. Daines has been leading the efforts in the U.S. Senate to ensure this practice is put to an end.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn August 7th, 2020, Daines introduced a bipartisan veterans benefits package to support Montana veterans including his provision to protect veterans and their families from pension poachers.\r\n\r\nLast month, Daines took to the Senate floor to urge his Senate colleagues to support this bill and stand by our veterans and their families.\r\nLast July, Daines introduced his bipartisan pension-poaching bill after he was approached by Patricia Pardue, the widow of a Montana veteran, who saw nearly all of her pension benefits stripped by a scam-artist.\r\n\r\nDaines will continueworking toadvance his bill to protect Montana's veterans.Daines is committed to ensuring cases like Patricia's never happens again and he will continue fighting to raise awareness on this important issue impacting so many vulnerable veterans across the country and their family members.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/subject-received-size-categories-hall-travis-release-gianforte-s-suicide", "Gianfortes Suicide Prevention Bills Pass House", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The U.S. House of Representatives last night unanimously passed two suicide prevention bills from Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.).\nThese bills are badly needed by a nation working to emerge from an unprecedented health and economic crisis. And it's badly needed in Montana where, tragically, we have one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, Gianforte said. I'm glad we've been able to work together on this measure and others to improve the network of services that make up the Suicide Prevention Lifeline and to educate Americans about suicide prevention.\nCLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST ELEMENTS\nGianforte's bipartisan National Suicide Hotline Designation Act makes 9-8-8 the universal telephone number for the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system, which operates through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Veterans Crisis Line. Gianforte introduced the bill in August 2019 with U.S. Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), Chris Stewart (R-Utah), and Seth Moulton (D-Mass.).\nGianforte's bipartisan Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act sets up an educational campaign to raise awareness for 9-8-8, suicide prevention resources, and more effective discourse on how to prevent suicide. Gianforte introduced legislation with U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) in October 2019.\nPassage of the bipartisan bills, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act and the Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act, builds upon Gianforte's efforts to prevent suicide and increase access to health care.\nMontana has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, with suicide as the leading cause of death for Montanans ages 15 to 24.\nIn April 2019, Gianforte brought together providers, experts, and advocates for a roundtable discussion in Billings about ideas to prevent suicide, reduce barriers to substance abuse treatment and mental health care, and increase access to care in underserved communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/suicidebillpasseshouse", "Gianfortes Suicide Prevention Bills Pass House", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The U.S. House of Representatives last night unanimously passed two suicide prevention bills from Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.).\nThese bills are badly needed by a nation working to emerge from an unprecedented health and economic crisis. And it's badly needed in Montana where, tragically, we have one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, Gianforte said. I'm glad we've been able to work together on this measure and others to improve the network of services that make up the Suicide Prevention Lifeline and to educate Americans about suicide prevention.\nCLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST ELEMENTS\nGianforte's bipartisan National Suicide Hotline Designation Act makes 9-8-8 the universal telephone number for the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system, which operates through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the Veterans Crisis Line. Gianforte introduced the bill in August 2019 with U.S. Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), Chris Stewart (R-Utah), and Seth Moulton (D-Mass.).\nGianforte's bipartisan Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act sets up an educational campaign to raise awareness for 9-8-8, suicide prevention resources, and more effective discourse on how to prevent suicide. Gianforte introduced legislation with U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) in October 2019.\nPassage of the bipartisan bills, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act and the Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act, builds upon Gianforte's efforts to prevent suicide and increase access to health care.\nMontana has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, with suicide as the leading cause of death for Montanans ages 15 to 24.\nIn April 2019, Gianforte brought together providers, experts, and advocates for a roundtable discussion in Billings about ideas to prevent suicide, reduce barriers to substance abuse treatment and mental health care, and increase access to care in underserved communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-its-time-to-pass-my-bill-to-prevent-child-predators-from-receiving-government-pensions-", "Daines: Its Time to Pass My Bill to Prevent Child Predators from Receiving Government Pensions", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.22.20\n\t\t\t Daines: It's Time to Pass My Bill to Prevent Child Predators from Receiving Government Pensions  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines todayurged hisSenate colleagues topass his bill that would prevent convicted pedophiles from receiving a federal government pension. Daines introduced his billin response to Stanley Patrick Weber  a former U.S. Indian Health Services pediatrician and convicted child molester who abused children for decades, including on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana.\r\n\r\nI write to highlight my legislation, the Denying Pensions to Convicted Child Molesters Act, which has been pending before your committee for more than a year, Daines wrote. In that time, perpetrators of some of the most heinous crimes imaginable remain eligible to receive tax-payer funded pensions. That this is allowed to continue is unconscionable. I urge your committee to hold a business meeting on my bill as soon as possible so this common sense solution can be passed into law.\r\n\r\nTo read Daines' full letter to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, click HERE.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\n\r\nOn June 28th, 2019, Dainesreceived a letter from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in response to the Senator's call for action to take away convicted pedophile Stanley Patrick Weber's government pension.\r\n\r\nOn May 1st, 2019, Daines introduced a bill to prevent convicted pedophiles from receiving a federal government pension.\r\n\r\nOn March 28th, 2019, Daines sent a letter to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), urging he stop Stanley Patrick Weber, a former Indian Health Service (IHS) pediatrician recently convicted for molesting children while working on the Blackfeet Reservation, from continuing to receive a government pension in prison.\r\n\r\nIn March of 2019, areportshowed that Weber could receive nearly $2 million while serving in prison.\r\n\r\nOn March 14th, 2019, Daines demanded answers on recent cases of abuse in the Indian Health Service (IHS).\r\n\r\nOn February 22nd, 2019, Daines sent a letter to Rear Adm. Michael Weahkee, the Acting Director of the Indian Health Service (IHS), demanding answers on Stanley Patrick Weber, a former pediatrician at IHS who was recently convicted of sexually molesting children while working on the Blackfeet Reservation.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/bill-name-mountain-b-47-ridge-heads-president-s-desk", "Bill to name mountain B-47 Ridge heads to presidents desk", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A bill to name a ridge east of the Paradise Valley for an Air Force bomber that crashed there in 1962 is headed to the desk of President Donald Trump.\nThe B-47 Ridge Designation Act passed the U.S. House unanimously on Monday, clearing the final hurdle between it and the president.\nThe bill would dub a ridge off the southwest side of Emigrant Peak as B-47 Ridge and allow the placing of a memorial plaque at the crash site. It's where four Air Force pilots died in 1962 whileflying a training mission through Montana. Debris from the wreck is still scattered on the mountain.\nMontana's entire congressional delegation has been behind the effort to honor of the four pilots since Bryan Wells, of Emigrant, began pushing for it a few years ago. Wells, the chair of the B-47 Memorial Committee, has taken many people to the crash site. In 2016, he organized a memorial at a nearby cemetery for the families of the men who died.\nThe three members of the delegation celebrated Monday's vote in a joint news release.\nRepublican Rep. Greg Gianforte said the designation will honor the pilots and serve as a permanent reminder of their enormous sacrifice.\nRepublican Sen. Steve Daines said that after years of work, we're now one step away from forever memorializing and honoring the four pilots.\nDemocratic Sen. Jon Tester urged the president to quickly sign this legislation into law so that we honor the lives of these four servicemen for generations to come.\nThe four pilots were Capt. Bill Faulconer, Lt. Fred Hixenbaugh, Lt. David Sutton, and Lt. Lloyd Sawyers. They were flying a routine training mission through Montana on July 23, 1962, when they crashed into the mountain. They took off from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas around 6:30 p.m., and flew through Montana, looped around Dillon and slammed into the southwestern slope of Emigrant Peak late that night at an elevation of about 8,500 feet.\nThe crash started a small wildfire and scattered plane wreckage.\nMontana's congressional delegation first introduced a bill to name the ridge in 2018. It was reintroduced in 2019, and it has cruised through the necessary legislative steps since then.\nThe Senate passed the bill in February. A House committee held a hearing on the bill in June and sent it to the floor last week.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/savannas-act-passes-house-goes-president-trump", "Savanna's Act passes House, goes to President Trump", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Federal legislation for improving law enforcement practices regarding missing and murdered Native American people has passed the U.S. House and goes to President Donald Trump.\n\n\tSavanna's Act is named in honor of Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind, a 22-year-old pregnant Fargo woman who was killed in 2017, her baby cut from her womb.\n\n\tThe billwas reintroduced last year by U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, after former U.S. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D., proposed it in 2017. U.S. Sens. John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer, both R-N.D., co-sponsored the reintroduced bill.\n\t\n\t\tSavanna's Act addresses a tragic issue in Indian Country and helps establish better law enforcement practices to track, solve and prevent these crimes against Native Americans, Hoeven said in a statement Monday.We appreciate our House colleagues for passing the bill today and sending it on to the president to become law. At the same time, we continue working to advance more legislation like this to strengthen public safety in tribal communities and ensure victims of crime receive support and justice.\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\tHoeven is chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.Both Montana's senators, Republican Steve Daines and Democrat Jon Tester, and Wyoming's John Barrasso, are also on the Indian Affairs committee.Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) introduced the bill in the House with a bipartisan group of lawmakers.\n\t\t\n\t\t\tMontana faces a tragic crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women. They are our daughters and sisters, and they deserve justice, Gianforte said. Passage of Savanna's Act brings us one step closer to ending this epidemic by upgrading critical data and improving communication among law enforcement. I look forward to President Trump signing our bipartisan bill into law.\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\tSavanna's Act seeks to clarify responsibilities of federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement agencies in responding to missing and murdered Indigenous people, and to provide guidelines for responding and annual reporting requirements.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delegation-s-bill-honoring-fallen-airmen-passes-house", "Delegations Bill Honoring Fallen Airmen Passes House", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A bipartisan measure honoring four fallen airmen, the B-47 Ridge Designation Act, passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously this afternoon.\nIn 1962, four brave airmen tragically lost their lives in service to our country, and today, we are one step closer to honoring their legacy, Gianforte said. B-47 Ridge will serve as a permanent reminder of their enormous sacrifice. I look forward to President Trump signing this important legislation into law.\nAfter years of hard work, we're now one step away from forever memorializing and honoring the four brave men who tragically died during a routine B-47 mission almost six decades ago in Montana, Daines said. I thank Congressman Gianforte for working to get our bipartisan bill passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law.\nI'm glad to see that the House came together to pass this bipartisan bill ensuring that we honor the brave men whose lives were cut short on that tragic night years ago, said Tester. I urge the President to quickly sign this legislation into law so that we honor the lives of these four servicemen for generations to come.\nLt. Fred Hixenbaugh, Capt. Bill Falconer, Lt. Lloyd Sawyers, and Lt. David Sutton died on July 23, 1962 when their B-47 bomber, flying a training mission from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, crashed into the side of Emigrant Peak in Park County.\nThe B-47 Ridge Designation Act names the ridge of the crash site to B-47 Ridge' and allows the placement of a memorial plaque at the site.\nEarlier this summer, Gianforte and Bryan Wells, chairman of the B-47 Memorial Committee and a resident of Emigrant, testified before a House Natural Resources subcommittee in support of the bill. The full committee reported the bill on September 14.\nOn February 12, 2020, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the B-47 Ridge Designation Act, after the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources cleared it on December 17, 2019.\nOn February 14, 2019, Gianforte introduced the B-47 Ridge Designation Act, H.R. 1267. U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester introduced companion legislation in the Senate, S. 490, on the same day. Their bill passed the Senate in February 2020.\nIn the 115th Congress, Gianforte, Daines, and Tester introduced the measure in their respective chambers, H.R. 6041 and S. 3035.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/savanna-s-act-passes-house", "Savannas Act Passes House", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Savanna's Act, bipartisan legislation to address the nation's crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women, unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. The measure, which Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) introduced with a bipartisan group of lawmakers, will go to President Trump's desk.\nMontana faces a tragic crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women. They are our daughters and sisters, and they deserve justice, Gianforte said. Passage of Savanna's Act brings us one step closer to ending this epidemic by upgrading critical data and improving communication among law enforcement. I look forward to President Trump signing our bipartisan bill into law.\nThe bill is named in honor of Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind, a 22-year-old pregnant member of the Spirit Lake Tribe who was tragically murdered in August 2017.\nNative American women face a murder rate 10 times higher than the national average, and 84 percent experience some form of violence in their lifetime.\nThere is no reliable way of knowing how many Native women go missing each year. The databases that hold statistics of these cases are outdated, and there is a lack of coordination among law enforcement agencies.\nSavanna's Act requires federal agencies to update the current federal database and creates standardized protocols to serve as guidelines for law enforcement agencies.\nGianforte introduced the bill in 2019 with 20 Democratic and Republican lawmakers.\nThe measure unanimously passed the U.S. Senate in March 2020.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-we-must-support-amtrak-employees", "Daines: We Must Support Amtrak Employees", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.21.20\n\t\t\t Daines: We Must Support Amtrak Employees \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Urges Senate Leadership for Action to Stop Any Reductions in Service, Staff\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve DainestodayurgedSenate Leadershipto stop the reduction of services and staff for Amtrak along the Hi-Line. Daines stressed the need to protectjobs and the local economy that Amtraksupports in Montana.\r\nAmtrak's plan to cut staff by twenty percent, and reduce service on the Empire Builder from daily to tri-weekly on October 19, would decimate rural economies in Montana and leave tens of thousands without daily access to the national transportation network, Daines wrote. The Empire Builder provides rural Montanans a safe and reliable mode of transportation to and from major cities, giving them greater access to necessities such as world class healthcare. Additionally, it is critical to our tourism economy, bringing thousands each year to visit our pristine wilderness and National Parks. Further, the reductions in staff could leave thousands without a job in the midst of a once in a generation pandemic.\r\nTo read Daines' letter to Senate Leadership click, HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn June 24th, 2020, Daines sent a bipartisan letter to the President of Amtrak opposing their plans to terminate one out of every five employees, putting thousands out of work, and reducing the hours of operation of the National network of long distance trains.\r\nThrough the CARES Act, Congress provided Amtrak with $1.02 billion to alleviate economic impact, yet, Amtrak's plan to terminate one out of every five employees would put thousands of Americans out of work at a time when millions of Americans have lost their jobs.\r\nThese actions will eliminate thousands of points of connection and dramatically reduce the utility of Amtrak as a transportation provider, irrevocably hurting hundreds of communities and small towns already devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-14-billion-in-second-round-of-coronavirus-food-assistance-program-all-wheat-farmers-now-eligible-", "Daines Announces $14 Billion in Second Round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, All Wheat Farmers Now Eligible", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.18.20\n\t\t\t Daines Announces $14 Billion in Second Round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, All Wheat Farmers Now Eligible  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATEU.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that President Trump and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be providing an additional $14 billion through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) that will be made available to Montana farmers and ranchers who continue to face market disruptions and associated costs due to COVID-19. Producers can apply for assistance through this program beginning September 21st through December 11th, 2020. More information on CFAP and how to apply can be found at farmers.gov/cfap or your local FSA office.\r\nThis is great news for our agriculture producers, especially our wheat farmers across Montana, Daines said. I'm glad USDA will be providing an additional $14 billion in CFAP funding that will be made available for Montana farmers and ranchers and that USDA acted on my request to ensure all classes of wheat are eligible for this funding.\r\nSenator Daines has been pushing USDA to provide additional CFAP funding and expand eligibility for producers after hearing directly from Montana farmers and ranchers across the state.\r\nUSDA also announced that all classes of wheat are now eligible for CFAP payments, provided they meet a minimum 5 percent price decline over a specified period of time. This comes after Senator Daines called on the USDA to provide resources through the CARES Act to support all classes of wheat.\r\nTo read the USDA release click, HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts click HERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-the-passing-of-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg", "Daines Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.18.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg:\r\nJustice Ginsburg lived an incredible life, full of historic accomplishments. She was a courageous fighter in both the courtroom and in her longtime health battles. My deepest condolences to the family, friends and Americans mourning her passing.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-signs-police-pledge", "Gianforte Signs Police Pledge", "2020-09-16", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) recently pledged to support America's law enforcement officers and oppose efforts to defund the police.\nLaw enforcement officers in Montana leave their homes every day knowing they may not return. They put their life on the line to protect our communities. To protect them, we must stand firmly against efforts to defund the police, Gianforte said. I thank the men and women in blue who serve and make a difference in our communities. I support you. \nHeritage Action's full Police Pledge, which Gianforte signed, may be found below:\nA lawful societyfree from mob rule and violent insurrectionis not possible without Law Enforcement.\nPolice Officers have chosen a noble profession. They dedicate their lives to upholding the law and protecting the sacred rights of their fellow citizens. As a profession, they deserve support and respect.\nI stand with America's Police and pledge to oppose any bill, resolution, or movement to Defund the Police.'", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/breaking-daines-to-bring-va-secretary-wilkie-to-montana-for-several-veterans-related-meetings", "BREAKING: Daines to Bring VA Secretary Wilkie to Montana for Several Veterans Related Meetings", "2020-09-16", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.16.20\n\t\t\t BREAKING: Daines to Bring VA Secretary Wilkie to Montana for Several Veterans Related Meetings \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie will be visiting Montana with Daines later this monthto meet with Montana veterans and discuss several of Daines' key legislative priorities for the veterans community.\r\n\r\nI'm excited to welcome Secretary Wilkie to Montanato meet first hand with Montana veterans, Daines said. \"It is my honor to serve Montana veterans in the United States Senate, and I look forward to bringing Secretary Wilkie to our great state to discuss important issues facing Montana veterans.\"\r\n\r\nVeterans' trust in VA reached an all-time high in April, and the improvements we've made at VA would not have been possible without the help of strong leaders like Senator Daines. We thank him for his steadfast support of Veterans in Montana and across the country, Secretary Wilkie said.\r\n\r\nMore details to come.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\n\r\nDaines has been a strong advocate on behalf of Montana veterans fighting for better access to care and ensuring our veterans receive the honor and respect they earned in defense of our country.\r\n\r\nTo follow Daines' work on behalf of Montana veterans, click HERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-bipartisan-wildfire-prevention-bill-takes-center-stage-at-senate-hearing", "Daines Bipartisan Wildfire Prevention Bill Takes Center Stage at Senate Hearing", "2020-09-16", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.16.20\n\t\t\t Daines' Bipartisan Wildfire Prevention Bill Takes Center Stage at Senate Hearing \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE Today ataU.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing,U.S. Senator Steve Dainesstressed the importance of passinghis bipartisan wildfire prevention and forest management reform bill which will protect Montanacommunities from deadly wildfires, promote public safety and health, and create good paying timber jobs. Daines introduced his bipartisanbill with Senator Feinstein of California.\r\n\r\nTo download a clip of the Senator's remarks click, HERE\r\nTo download full remarks click, HERE\r\nWe are at a critical time. The West is burning. People are dying. And our way of life as we know it is in danger My bill with Senator Feinstein offers 53 pages worth of solutions,\" Daines said. \"Now is the time to come together, Democrat and Republican, and pass meaningful forestry reform  my bipartisan bill does just that, Daines said.\r\nAt the hearing, Daines thanked first responders,law enforcement, fire officials and more for their work battling the fires in Montana and across the West, and he held a moment of silence for those who lost their lives because of thefires, including two Montanans: Sara Madsen and Tom Duffy.\r\n\r\nDaines and Feinstein speaking at today's hearing\r\nDaines' bipartisan bill will create good paying timber jobs, reduce frivolous litigation, protect wildlife habitats and air and water quality, and reduce the risk of wildfire in at-risk communities. Daines' bill is especially critical during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as wildfires make conditions worse for Montanans with health risks and respiratory illnesses and wildland firefighters are at a greater risk than usual.\r\nDaines' bipartisan legislation has received significantsupport from stakeholders across the country.\r\nStatements of Support:\r\nIn addition to the statements of support below, Daines received letters of support from Boone and Crockett Club, Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, National Deer Alliance, National Wild Turkey Federation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ruffed Grouse Society, Wildlife Management Institute, Wild Sheep Foundation, California Governor Gavin Newsom (D), Forest Resource Association, Federal Forest Resource Coalition, Farm Bureau Federations of the Western States, NorthWestern Energy, Montana Electric Cooperatives Association, Neptune Aviation, National Association of State Foresters, National Association of Conservation Districts, MT Wood Products Association, Montana Telecommunications Association, Montana Logging Association, Family Farm Alliance, and MT Water Resources Association. To read the letters click HERE.\r\nRMEF strongly supports active forest management. Doing so not only creates and enhances habitat for elk and other wildlife but it greatly improves overall forest health while reducing the potential for catastrophic wildfire. There are a number of examples in several different states where wildfires came up against past RMEF habitat enhancement projects and the flames almost immediately died down because they lost their fuel, allowing firefighters to make a successful stand. - Blake Henning, Chief Conservation Officer, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation\r\n\"The Treasure State Resources Association (TSRA) is pleased to support the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020. As a diverse association of industry,agriculture, labor, and recreation interests, we understand the complex challenges of forest management require a common sense approach. The science-based reformscontained in this bill are the exact kind of bipartisan approach needed to put Montanans to work, while protecting communities and critical infrastructure from catastrophic wildfires. We applaud the work of Senators Daines and Feinstein to craft this legislation and look forward to seeing it signed into law.\" - Mark Baker, President, TSRA\r\nThe health of America's federal forest lands, the largest single source of fresh water in our nation, continue to be threatened by catastrophic wildfire. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act embraces collaborative polices that will improve forest health and watershed health while protecting critical water infrastructure and communities. The nation's water providers are grateful to Senator Feinstein and Senator Daines for their leadership on this issue. -Ian Lyle, Executive Vice President, National Water Resources Association \r\nThe Montana Fire Trustees Association supports Senator Daines' efforts to help reduce the intensity of wildfires and protect lives, homes ,and our forests. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act will give land managers additional tools and resources to help protect our communities. This legislation comes at a time when these resources are needed more than ever and we look forward to seeing this legislation move forward. -Bonnie Jones, Montana Fire Trustee Association\r\nThe Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) applauds the leadership of Senators Feinstein (D-CA) and Daines (R-MT) in producing S. 4431, the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020. One of ACWA's highest priorities is the protection of valuable watersheds from high intensity wildfires. This bipartisan legislation will help address the dangers posed by the unhealthy condition of our forests that are magnified by our changing climate and more perilous fire behavior - Dave Eggerton, Executive Director, Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA)\r\nForests and fire have been in the center of the American conservation story for well over a century  the Great Fire of 1910 that burned three million acres in western Montana and northern Idaho inspired nationwide recognition of the importance of active forest management to prevent future fires. Regrettably, decades of fire suppression coupled with insect and disease in our forests is resulting once again in devastating fire seasons like the one we are seeing this year. As a dedicated group of hunter conservationists, the Boone and Crockett Club has long recognized that active forest management is essential for the health of our forests. We support the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act pending before the Senate and appreciate Senator Steve Daines' leadership on this legislation. -Tim Brady, President, Boone and Crockett Club,\r\nThe Montana Wood Products Association applauds Senators Daines and Feinstein in their dedication and hard work to craft a bill that provides additional tools for public land managers to reduce hazardous fuels. With over 5 million acres ravaged by wildfire this year, and the loss of 35 lives and countless homes, with no end in sight, the bill could not be more timely! We implore congress to act quickly. - Julia Altemus, Executive Director, Montana Wood Products Association\r\nSenators Daines and Feinstein deserve great credit for bringing this bill forward and actually trying to do something --instead of just pointing fingers. Commonsense, intelligent, active forest management is desperately needed to reduce the fuel accumulation and wildfire risk, as well as to promote healthier forests and produce jobs. Bravo!  Raymond Clark\r\nForests across the United States need more active management. Active management is central to the health, productivity, and resiliency of all forests. Forest diseases and pests know no boundaries and easily spread across ownerships to negatively affect even the healthiest of forests. NASF applauds the bipartisan approach of the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act to promote working across boundaries to improve our forests and make them less prone to wildfire risk.  Greg Josten, President, National Association of State Foresters\r\nThe only way to protect the health and productivity of all of our nation's forests is by managing them all to be more resilient. Greater forest management requires coordination among state and federal natural resource agencies, private forestland owners, and private and non-profit forestry organizations. NASF supports expanding proposed authorities provided in this bill, in order to benefit all of America's forests.  Jay Farrell, Executive Director, National Association of State Foresters\r\nThe Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020 is forward thinking legislation that provides important tools to reduce the threat of disastrous wildfires. PCWA has experienced mega-fire first hand and has invested heavily in mitigation. With that experience, we applaud the leadership of Senator Feinstein and Senator Daines. This bill recognizes the importance of private and public interests coming together to fund and implement active forest management on public land. It also expands the ability to treat and utilize biomass and establishes a program to train a new generation of skilled workers to better manage forest resources.  Andy Fecko, General Manager, Placer County Water Agency\r\nOur National Forests in the United States have experienced increased mortality rates over the last 25 years of nearly 93 percent, which is the critical link that fuels these traumatic wildfires we are seeing today. These fires damage our forests that remove CO2 from the air, and instead release substantial amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act provides necessary tools to federal agencies to sustainably manage our nation's forests and reduce the fuel hazards. This legislation is a path towards improving forest health and carbon sequestration on our National Forest System Lands. - Deb Hawkinson, President, Forest Resource Association\r\nThe devastation of western forests, communities and infrastructure this year underscores the critical need for the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act. This bill includes important provisions to reduce the risk of fire in utility infrastructure, allowing our members to take precautions to continue to provide safe, reliable electricity to farms, ranches, businesses and communities. We recognize Senators Daines and Feinstein for introducing this essential bipartisan legislation and encourage the Senate to pass it without delay. - Gary Wiens, Montana Electric Cooperatives' Association, Chief Executive Officer\r\nThe bipartisan Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act is a major leap forward for collaborative forest management and wildfire prevention across our state. Over 600,000 Montanans live in areas that are at high-risk for wildfire.Unfortunately, for years public land managers and their local partners have been left without the tools needed to reduce wildfire risk and keep our communities safe.This Act addresses these challenges by mandating and streamlining collaborative forest projects that reduce fuel build-up and bolster local fire proofing measures. At the same time, the bill gives the Forest Service the necessary authority to accelerate restoration and salvage operations after a wildfire. As Montana communities continue to expand into forested lands, the risk for catastrophic wildfires like the ones witnessed in California grows greater every year. This legislation could not be more timely or more needed and I applaud Senator Daines for bringing bipartisan solutions to one of the greatest challenges facing the west.  Jim McCormick, Lewis and Clark County Commissioner\r\nThe National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) applauds the introduction of the bipartisan Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020 for addressing forestry management and wildfire prevention as wildfires continue to grow in size and severity. This legislation will provide natural resource managers with the common sense tools they need to succeed, including targeted categorical exclusions, allowing them to make the best local determinations for managing the landscape to prevent future wildfires. - Tim Palmer, President, The National Association of Conservation Districts\r\nWe would like to thank Senator Daines for this major breakthrough on bipartisan forest management reform. Frivolous litigation must end and we need to be able to help prevent catastrophic wildfires. This legislation addresses both important issues and our members stand ready to assist. - Bryan Lorengo, Southwest Regional Representative, Montana Logging Association\r\nNorthWestern Energy applauds the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020, introduced by U.S. Senators Daines and Feinstein. Wildfires in Montana have and can be devastating to people, property, land, and the environment, and that the Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020' is a very important tool in reducing wildfire risks for NorthWestern Energy's Montana customers. - Heather Grahame, General Counsel and Vice President  Regulatory and Federal Government Affairs, NorthWestern Energy\r\nSince entering public service, Senator Daines has worked non-stop to protect our natural resources by advocating sound forest management as the solution. The Emergency Wildfire & Public Safety Act is yet another important tool to achieve healthier forests while protecting human life. Reaching across the aisle demonstrates that our Senator Daines is leading on this issue. - Edward Regan, Resource Manager, RY Timber\r\nWe applaud Senator Daines for working to forge a bipartisan bill to address the pressing need for better management of our National Forests. Montanans have endured job losses from mill closures, and then endured many summers filled with wildfire smoke as our unmanaged forests have gone up in flames. This bill would represent a positive step to address the chronic forest health problems on our National Forests. We believe the bill can be part of the badly needed solution to the forest health and wildfire crisis on our National Forests. We look forward to working with Sen. Daines and others in a good faith effort to find common ground that will achieve the results all Montanans want. - Chuck Roady, President & General Manager, F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber and President, Federal Forest Resource Coalition \r\nThe Montana Telecommunications Association applauds Senator Daines for introducing with Senator Feinstein the bipartisan Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act. As we are learning from the Covid pandemic, broadband is more essential than ever for full participation in today's society. This important legislation, among other things, will make it easier for broadband providers like MTA's members to maintain critical infrastructure on public lands and to be able to use disaster relief and emergency assistance to install fire-resistant infrastructure. MTA appreciates the efforts of Senators Daines and Feinstein to facilitate broadband deployment. - The Montana Telecommunications Association\r\n\"Many thanks to Senator Daines & Feinstein for teaming up to introduce the Emergency Wildfire & Public Safety Act. This legislation will help ensure that our public lands in Montana continue to provide world-class recreational opportunities, protect at-risk communities and their water supplies, plus help to enhance wildlife habitat. I am hopeful that Gov. Bullock, or our next Governor, will have the opportunity to advance implementation of this landmark legislation. - Rich Lane, Forester & Log Buyer, Willis Enterprises\r\nThe National Wild Turkey Federation thanks Senator Daines and Senator Feinstein for introducing this important bipartisan legislation. Forest health and wildfire prevention are important to all Americans and we need well thought out solutions that everyone can support. This legislation provides those solutions and will result in more efficient and effective forest management where it is needed most. The NWTF looks forward to working with the Senators to enact this legislation into law so we can put it to work on the ground. - Becky Humphries, CEO, National Wild Turkey Federation.\r\nSenators Feinstein and Daines are to be commended for their leadership on this bipartisan effort to address perhaps the most pressing environmental issues of our time  unabated threats to communities from catastrophic wildfires and the forest health crisis in our western national forests. Eighty million acres of national forestland are at risk of catastrophic wildfire and 25 percent of the forests in the Intermountain West are at risk of mortality from insects and disease within the next 15 years. This legislation provides tools for the Forest Service to mitigate risks [through active management] from wildfire on public lands before fires start, while also encouraging expedited post-fire restoration of lands impacted by wildland fire. Additionally, this legislation also facilitates the removal of biomass from high risk national forest areas, which will further mitigate wildfire risks and encourage alternate sustainable uses for material that would otherwise burn. - Tom Schultz, VP Resources, Idaho Forest Group\r\nReducing the threat of wildfire to communities and watersheds is a critical issue for our public lands counties. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act would help advance necessary forest management projects in a timely and collaborative manner while preventing catastrophic wildfires. We thank Senators Feinstein and Daines for introducing this important legislation to safeguard landscape and watershed health. We hope Congress passes this bill as soon as possible.- Matthew Chase, Executive Director, National Association of Counties\r\nWith wildfires currently destroying areas in California, Colorado, Montana, Oregon, and other locations throughout the United States, we highly welcome the introduction of The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020 by Senators Feinstein (CA-D) and Daines (MT-R). As evangelicals Christians, we are commanded to tend and care for God's creation. Unfortunately, we have not been the best stewards in caring for our forests. Rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions spurred by climate change place new stresses on most of our National Forests and put surrounding communities at increased risk. Poor forest management and other causes further exacerbate these new threats. Reforesting and increase preventive actions in wildfire affected areas restores our national forest system while building resilience for our communities and drawing down heat-trapping carbon emissions all at the same time. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020 provides a start to addressing some of these immediate concerns. We look forward to seeing it move and improved as part of the legislative process. - The Rev. Mitch Hescox, President and CEO, The Evangelical Environmental Network\r\nI am excited about implementation of this act. The Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act is about results. Effective forest management requires action, and this bill encourages action through the use of Collaboratives, risk reduction pre-fire mitigation work, and post fire restoration initiatives. This act is about reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires to our communities. - Greg Chilcott, Chairman, Montana Coalition of Forest Counties\r\nEEI thanks Senators Feinstein and Daines for their leadership in introducing this bipartisan wildfire mitigation legislation. This bill will enable more effective industry-government coordination on land management policies, technology development and deployment, hazard mitigation, and workforce training. Electric companies across the country are committed to working with our government partners and other stakeholders on preparation and mitigation efforts that combat the wildfire threat and on the rapid deployment of technology solutions that address wildfire risks, while still maintaining the safe, reliable, and affordable energy we all need. - Edison Electric Institute\r\nThe Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation applauds the introduction of this bipartisan legislation that would improve forest health and wildlife habitat. Collaboratively developed forest management projects that minimize wildfire risk are a benefit to local communities, including hunters and anglers, and this legislation seeks to do just that. - Jeff Crane, President, Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation\r\nWe applaud Senator Daines for his work in introducing the bipartisan Emergency Wildfire and Public Safety Act of 2020. While providing aerial support to combat wildfires is the backbone of Neptune Aviation's business, we strongly support a multi-pronged approach in waging this nearly year-round battle. Increasing active forest management and deploying additional wildfire detection equipment are critical and commonsense measures to protect the communities most at risk from catastrophic wildfires. We encourage Congress to pass this legislation and provide the tools needed to prevent the spread of wildfires across Montana and the West. - Dan Snyder, Senior Vice President, Neptune Aviation Services\r\nThis month's devastating wildfires have impacted communities across the West, many of which are home to our collective friends, families, and member companies. It is past time to move beyond political posturing and advance real solutions to address the bureaucracy and gridlock contributing to a growing forest health crisis impacting our federal lands. We thank Senators Daines and Feinstein for their bipartisan leadership and support for active forest management tools like logging, thinning and prescribed fire, which are more important than ever to make our overstocked forests more resilient in the face of drought, insect infestations, and a changing climate, Travis Joseph, President/CEO, American Forest Resource Council, Portland, Oregon\r\nForesters and natural resource managers can and will use every tool at their disposal to proactively address fire-prone landscapes. In doing so, they provide fire managers more options to address new fires and maintain their safety. SAF is proud to support this crucial piece of legislation, which also invests in workforce development, accelerates post-fire restoration efforts, and creates new markets for biomass. These measures will help make our forests more resilient, give our wildland firefighters more suppression options, create safer communities, and develop new generations of forest stewards. - Terry Baker, CEO, Society of American Foresters\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been a leading voice in the United States Senate working to mitigate the spread of wildfires in Montana, his recent actions include:\r\nOn September 9th, 2020, U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein announced that their bipartisan forest management reform bill had been given a hearing date in the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for the following week.\r\nOn August 20th, 2020, Daines sent a letter to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee calling for a hearing as soon as possible on his bipartisan forest management reform legislation.\r\nOn August 17th, 2020, Daines hosted a roundtable discussion with local Montana leaders, conservation groups, leaders in the timber industry, and fire officials on his bipartisan forest management reform bill at Flathead National Forest.\r\nEarlier this summer, Daines introduced his major forest management reform bill after working for over a year on a bipartisan product that would have strong bipartisan consensus.\r\nDaines' work on the this significant bipartisan forestry reform legislation has received strong support from Montana leaders including the Montana Wood Products Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Northwestern Energy and Montana Logging Association.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-ill-always-back-the-blue-we-must-defend-the-police-not-defund-them", "Daines: I'll Always Back the Blue. We Must Defend the Police, Not Defund Them", "2020-09-16", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.16.20\n\t\t\t Daines: I'll Always Back the Blue. We Must Defend the Police, Not Defund Them \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Daines gives floor speech supporting Montana Law Enforcement, Signs onto Senate Resolution Backing the Blue\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines todaygave a speech on the Senate floor in support of Montana'slaw enforcement, thanking the men and women who wear the badge for their service and dedication to keeping Montananssafe. Daines' speech follows his co-sponsorshipof a Senateresolutionexpressing support for the brave men and women of law enforcement and condemns the perpetrators, instigators, and celebrators of targeted violence against law enforcement.\r\n\r\nFor Daines' full speech click, HERE.\r\nExcerpts from Daines' remarks:\r\n\"These men and womenare the best of the best... Montana heroes... literally putting their lives on the line every day to protect our families... our moms and dads...our kids.\r\n\"Theydon't do it for the pay or the accolades, they do it to serve their communities. To keep us safe.\r\nAnti-police rhetoric is beyonddangerous. And those who support it should be ashamed of themselves. They should publicly be condemned by every Senator, every Representative,every Governor across this country.\r\nThis talk is crazy. It's crazy in Montana and it's crazy across the country. And the Senators before you today will not accept it.\r\n\r\nWe shouldn't be defunding the police, we should be defending them.\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-successfully-secures-additional-resources-for-montana-census", "Daines Successfully Secures Additional Resources for Montana Census", "2020-09-16", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.16.20\n\t\t\t Daines Successfully Secures Additional Resources for Montana Census \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Trump administration responds to Daines' request\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines todayannounced that he has successfully secured additional support and resourcesfrom the Trumpadministration to improveMontana's census count.\r\nMontana has so much at stake for the 2020 census including access to federal resources and even the potential for more representation in Congress, Daines said. I'm glad to see the Trumpadministration act on my request to send more resources to our state to ensure Montanans areproperly represented for the next decade.\r\nIn total, Montana will see the addition of more than 250 enumerators working to count Montanans to ensure that Montana is properly represented in the 2020 census.\r\n\r\nLast week, Daines sent a letter urging the administration to direct additional census resources to Montana in the final weeks of the field data collection operation to ensure all Montanans are represented.\r\nTo read the response from the administration click, HERE.\r\nMuch of Montana remains historically undercounted. Ensuring an accurate census count is critical to potentially gaining additional Congressional representation and securing additional federal resources for Montana communities.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/gianforte-bipartisan-group-lead-effort-stand-rural-patients-hospitals", "Gianforte, Bipartisan Group Lead Effort To Stand up for Rural Patients, Hospitals", "2020-09-15", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) as well as U.S. Reps. David B. McKinley, P.E., (R-W.Va.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), and Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) led a group of 243 Members of Congress in an effort to protect rural patients and hospitals\nIn a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar, the lawmakers requested immediate action to ensure covered safety-net providers continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts.\nRecently, several major drug manufacturers announced they will limit or restrict federally required 340B drug discounts for eligible health care organizations. These providers rely on 340B savings to ensure access to care for low-income and rural patients.\nThe 340B program plays an integral role in ensuring eligible health care organizations have access to vital lifesaving medications. As Members of Congress deeply committed to the important safety net mission of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure covered entities continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts, the lawmakers wrote.\nDrug manufacturers are flouting their statutory obligations by restricting access to safe, affordable medications for low-income Americans who also are among those most affected by COVID-19, said Bruce Siegel MD, MPH, President and CEO of America's Essential Hospitals. We thank the nearly 250 House members led by Reps. McKinley, DeGette, Gianforte, Welch, Johnson, and Matsui, for their swift action to urge the administration to stop big pharma's ill-timed and illegal efforts to narrow the 340B program.\nRead the full letter below or click here.\nDear Secretary Azar:\nThe 340B program plays an integral role in ensuring eligible health care organizations have access to vital lifesaving medications. As Members of Congress deeply committed to the important safety net mission of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure covered entities continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts.\nRecently, several pharmaceutical companies have taken a series of actions to restrict federally required 340B drug discounts for eligible health care organizations/covered entities, which are defined in statute and include HRSA-supported health centers and look-alikes, Ryan White clinics, Medicare/Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospitals, children's hospitals, and other safety net providers. These providers have always served as a critical part of our health care safety net, ensuring that our most vulnerable populations have access to the care they need. Right now, they are on the front lines of our national response to COVID-19. These providers rely on 340B savings to ensure access to care for low-income and rural patients. The recent actions undermine the intended purpose of the 340B Drug Pricing Program. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must take immediate action to stop these companies from either denying or limiting access to 340B pricing to hospitals, health centers, and clinics participating in 340B.\nCongress enacted 340B with strong bipartisan support more than 25 years ago to reduce drug costs for safety-net providers that care for vulnerable populations. Congress clearly stated the law's purpose: To stretch scarce Federal resources as far as possible, reaching more eligible patients and providing more comprehensive services. The savings created by 340B do not cost the American taxpayer a single dollar, as the savings come directly from discounts provided by the manufacturers. Specifically, the 340B statute requires manufacturers wishing to participate in Medicaid and Medicare Part B to offer each covered entity covered outpatient drugs for purchase at or below the applicable ceiling price. There are no provisions in the statute that allow manufacturers to set conditions or otherwise impede a provider's ability to access 340B discounts.\nDespite this statutory requirement, several major drug manufacturers have recently announced that they will limit or restrict 340B pricing based on where the safety-net provider elects to have its 340B drugs shipped. These actions are in violation of the statutory requirement that drug companies charge no more than the 340B ceiling price when selling their products to 340B providers. They establish a dangerous precedent for other manufacturers to follow if immediate action is not taken.\nAdditionally, within the past two months, other manufacturers have sent requests to covered entities demanding extensive claims data that goes far beyond the scope of the 340B statute. These demands are not only needlessly burdensome for providers but also raise issues related to patient privacy. These companies are also threatening to limit or deny 340B pricing if these covered entities do not comply.\nThe actions of these companies violate the 340B statute and must be rejected. A failure to act will serve as an invitation to other manufacturers to follow suit, leading to a wholesale increase in prescription drug costs for our safety-net providers during a public health emergency. We urge you to use your authority to address these troubling actions and require these companies to comply with the law.\nThank you for your attention to these matters.\nBackground:\nSince 1992, the 340B program has used mandated discounts offered by drug manufacturers to help hospitals and other covered entities provide discounted drugs and lifesaving services to their patients.\nThe letter is supported by 340B Health, AEH, AAMC, AHA, Catholic Health Association, NRHA, Ryan White Clinics For 340B Access, Wellforce, NACHC, CommonSpirit Health, Denver Health, Colorado Community Health Network, National Alliance of Safety-Net Hospitals, St. Luke's University Health Network, West Virginia University Health System, Greater New York Hospital Association, Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania, and Kintegra Health.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-over-300000-for-vaughn-volunteer-fire-department", "Daines Secures Over $300,000 for Vaughn Volunteer Fire Department", "2020-09-14", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.14.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures Over $300,000 for Vaughn Volunteer Fire Department \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program will be directing $333,333.33 to the Vaughn Volunteer Fire Department.\r\nThis is about ensuring our firefighters in Vaughn have the critical support needed to keep our communities safe during this fire season, Daines said. I will continue working to ensure all of our brave firefighters have the help they need as they work to battle wildfires across Montana.\r\nFor more information on the funding, click HERE.\r\nThe AFG program makes funds available directly to fire departments, State Fire Training Academies and non-affiliated EMS organizations to support enhanced fire emergency response capabilities to fires and other hazards. Daines voted to secure funding for the AFG program last year.\r\nBackground: \r\nOn August 31st, 2020, Daines announced that AFG program would be $197,131 to the West End Volunteer Fire District in De Borgia.\r\nOn August 26th, 2020, Daines announced that AFG program would be directing $217,063.59 to the City of Great Falls and the East Missoula Rural Fire Department to support their fire departments' ability to respond to fires and other public safety hazards.\r\nOn August 10th, 2020, Daines announced that the AFG program would be directing $196,496.64 to the fire departments in Manhattan and Missoula.\r\nOn July 30th, 2020, Daines announced that the AFG program would be directing $50,000 to support the local fire department in the City and County of Butte-Silver Bow.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-over-11-million-for-billings-infrastructure-project", "Daines Secures Over $11 Million for Billings Infrastructure Project", "2020-09-10", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.10.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures Over $11 Million for Billings Infrastructure Project \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced the City of Billings will receive $11,656,765 in Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant funding for a major infrastructure project. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao called Daines with the good news this morning.\r\n\r\nDaines talking to Chao about the BUILD grant.\r\nThis BUILD grant funding will help modernize infrastructure in Billings, and is a big win for the community and jobs, Daines said. I'm glad to have secured these funds and I look forward to seeing these projects get started.\r\n\r\nThis funding will go towards completing the Northwest Billings Connector and Marathon Loop. Funds will create nearly 25 miles of continuous parkways and improve access to residential and employment areas near Billings International Airport. Daines requested support for the project in late April.\r\nStatements of Support:\r\nThis is the day we have been hoping and praying for for years. The city can now get to work on building the iconic Skyline Trail on the Rimrocks overlooking our beautiful valley. The Inner Belt Loop will connect Billings Heights and West Billings to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion by Metra. None of this would have happened without the diehard support of Senator Daines, the congressional delegation, and our community partners. They have our most sincere appreciation. Now let's build this! - Bill Cole, Mayor, City of Billings\r\nI want to thank the Trump Administration and especially Senator Daines for the help with securing Build Grant funding for the City of Billings. Billings and Yellowstone County will benefit from the new and improved transportation route. Our contractors will have an opportunity to bid on millions of dollars of construction work, which will allow us to reduce congestion and traffic delays, and improve our transportation system for our residents. - John Ostlund, Commissioner, Yellowstone County\r\nWhen we work together to advocate for our community, this is the result. Over 11 million dollars to highlight and connect the natural beauty of our city, improve our ability to attract talent and new private investment , and further distinguish our community amenities. This brings significant momentum to our economic recovery. - Steve Arveschoug, Executive Director, Big Sky Economic Development\r\nFinishing the Inner Belt Loop and building Skyline Trail will not only open up more business opportunities, but significantly improve one of the features that defines Billings--our Rimrocks. We are immensely grateful to Senator Daines and our entire congressional delegation who helped get this BUILD grant application across the finish line. - Dan Brooks, Director of Business Advocacy, Billings Chamber of Commerce\r\nBackground:\r\nOn April 27th, 2020, Daines wrote a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Chao in support of Billings receiving the BUILD grant.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-over-150000-for-montana-law-enforcement-in-missoula-billings-for-school-safety-programs", "Daines Secures Over $150,000 For Montana Law Enforcement in Missoula, Billings for School Safety Programs", "2020-09-10", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.10.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures Over $150,000 For Montana Law Enforcement in Missoula, Billings for School Safety Programs \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the City of Missoula and Billings School District #2 will be receiving over $150,000 in grant funding as part of the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) within the Department of Justice. This program provides funding to improve security at schools and on school grounds through evidence-based school safety programs.\r\nThis funding will help support our local law enforcement and provide critical resources to ensure that our Montana schools are protected and students are kept safe, Daines said.\r\nFunding:\r\nCity of Missoula - $43,679\r\nBillings School District #2 - $108,794\r\nThe funding can be used to provide training for local law enforcement officers to prevent student violence; metal detectors, locks, lighting, and other deterrent measures; technology to speed up the response of local law enforcement during an emergency; and other measures that provide improvements in security for schools.\r\nTo view the Department of Justice announcement click, HERE.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-statement-on-schumer-blocking-passage-of-covid-19-relief-package", "Daines Statement on Schumer Blocking Passage of COVID-19 Relief Package", "2020-09-10", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.10.20\n\t\t\t Daines Statement on Schumer Blocking Passage of COVID-19 Relief Package \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today issued the following statement after Senate Minority LeaderSchumer andSenate Democrats blocked a targeted COVID-19 relief package that would have provided relief for Montanans and millions of American workers, families, schools, small businesses and expanded access to testing and promoted vaccine development.\r\nThis targeted relief package would have provided critical support for Montana families, workers and small businesses, as well as support our schools and provide strong funding for the development and manufacturing of a COVID-19 vaccine,Daines said.It's beyond disappointing to see Schumer block this billwhen there areMontanans who are in needoftargeted relief right now.Wemustput politics aside andworktogethertoget this done for Montana familiesthe stakes are toohigh.\r\nSeveral stakeholders across Montanacame out in support of this targeted relief package, stressing the need for additional support:\r\nAs Montana's Superintendent of Public Instruction, I encourage the U.S. Congress to work in a bipartisan way to deliver immediate COVID-19 relief to Montana's families and schools. This week, the U.S. Senate is considering the Delivering Immediate Relief to America's Families, Schools, and Small Businesses Act which would allocate $105 billion in additional education stabilization funds, provide flexible education funding to families in various education systems, and limit liability for school districts during the COVID-19 outbreak. Montana was one of the first states in the nation to get CARES Act funding out to schools which has allowed them to begin safely reopening. Additional aid from this Act will help schools stay open and help Montana's economy to open back up. Elsie Arntzen, Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction\r\nWe appreciate that Senator Daines continues to respond to the needs of Montana agriculture. The additional assistance this bill provides to farmers who are still struggling due to the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic is especially appreciated, along with updates and additions to the Paycheck Protection Program and other provisions that will help all Montana business owners. -Hans McPherson, President, Montana Farm Bureau Federation\r\nThe Montana Stockgrowers is incredibly appreciative of Senator Daines' leadership on the issue of Coronavirus relief. This virus continues to have lasting impacts on Montana's ranching families, so the relief he's proposing couldn't come at a better time. We're hopeful it will have a positive impact for livestock producers throughout Montana. - Fred Wacker, President, Montana Stockgrowers Association\r\nS. 178 is vitally important to us because it extends the time for us to utilize the CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund monies we received months after the CARES Act was passed. Tribes' inclusion and parity in the CARES Act was historic and we are deeply grateful for it because it is helping us keep our citizens safe, provide critical healthcare support, and allowing us to reopen our economy responsibly. But these historic resources should not be rushed. Tribes desperately need the S. 178's extension of time to responsibly spend our CRF monies.  Andrew Werk, President, Fort Belknap Indian Community\r\nI urge the Senate to pass S. 178 (the Delivering Immediate Relief to America's Families, Schools and Small Businesses Act). While not perfect in the Crow Tribe's view, the bill is still very goodand importantly provides relief to Indian tribes that is absolutely critical. In particular, Section 8001, which extends the time for tribes to utilize their Coronavirus Relief Fund CRF monies through the end of the 2021 fiscal year. That relief is important to the Crow Tribe and many others because we receive our CRF monies months later than our state counterparts and at moments when the pandemic was hitting our communities hard. We need time to plan and be prudent stewards of the CRF monies, to ensure the best use and maximum positive impact of the historic relief Congress passed in the CARES Act.  A.J. Not Afraid, Chairman, Crow Tribe\r\nMontana Independent Bankers appreciates Senator Daines' efforts to secure expedited forgiveness for PPP loans below $150,000 in the Delivering Immediate Relief to America's Families, Schools, and Small Businesses Act. PPP borrowers and their lending partners want to focus on helping businesses sustain long-term recovery not wading through complicatedpaperwork. We encourage all of Montana's congressional delegation to come together in support of an accelerated PPP forgiveness process. - Kenny Martin, First Montana Bank\r\nThe Targeted COVID-19 Relief Package had provisions that:\r\nSupports Montana Small Businesses, Provides More Funding for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)\r\n \r\nIncludes $257.7 billion to replenish the PPP which helps keep Montana small businesses open and workers on the payroll.\r\n\r\nDaines was instrumental in securing PPP loans for Montana small businesses like Mountain Mudd in Billings and Mountain Hot Tub in Bozeman.\r\nSecond round of PPP for Montana's hardest-hit businesses.\r\n\r\n\r\nExpands PPP eligibility to include certain 501(c)(6)\r\n\r\nMontana local organizations, including Chambers of Commerce, Destination Marketing Organizations, and Outdoor Recreation Organizations with 300 or fewer employees will be eligible for PPP loans.This is something Daines specifically worked to include.\r\n\r\n\r\nStreamlined forgiveness for loans below $150,000.\r\nMontana small business owners who borrowed below $150,000 will not be required to submit to the lender documentation required by theCARESAct, if the borrower submits a simple, one-page attestation form to their lender. This is consistent with the Paycheck Protection Small Business Expense Forgiveness Act, which Daines cosponsored.\r\nIncludes liability protections for Montana businesses, hospitals, schools, non-profits, and others\r\n\r\nAllows Montana businesses to reopen without fear of frivolous lawsuits\r\nPromotes nationwide uniformity in COVID-related medical malpractice and personal injury cases.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Workers and Jobs\r\n \r\nProvides supplemental Unemployment Insurance payments for Montanans who lost their jobs\r\n\r\nContinues the unemployment insurance payments for Montanans who lost their jobs due to COVID-19 at $300 per week through December 27th.\r\nExtends the authorization for unemployment benefits for those covered under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act through December 27th.\r\n\r\n\r\nStreamlines and expedites permitting of critical minerals to accelerate American manufacturing and support good paying jobs\r\n \r\nPrioritizes Public Health and Safety, Provides Significant Funding for Testing\r\n \r\nIncludes $16 billion to expand access to testing for COVID-19, including covering costs for testing equipment and testing supplies and personal protective equipment needed to administer tests.\r\n \r\nProvides Funding for the Manufacturing and Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines & Treatments\r\n \r\nProvides $31 billion for vaccine, therapeutic and diagnostic development; vaccine distribution; the Strategic National Stockpile and grants for the establishment of state stockpiles.\r\n\r\nSpecifically, $20 billion is included for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority to support the manufacturing, production, and purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics that will help to restore confidence in our communities to continue safely reopening  something Daines was instrumental in securing.\r\nReminder: Daines has been instrumental in securing funding for a COVID-19 vaccine and his work has been publicly praised by President Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, FDA Deputy Commissioner Dr. Anand Shah and former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb.\r\n\r\n\r\n$6 billion is included for the CDC to support the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure that Montanans and Americans will have access to a safe and effective vaccine as soon as one becomes available.\r\n \r\nSupport for Montana Schools, Education, Child Care\r\n \r\nProvides $105 billion to schools across the country as the academic year kicks off.\r\nProvides $15 billion for child care services and providers.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nSupports Bringing Jobs Back to America and Holds China Accountable\r\n \r\nStrengthens U.S. medical supply chain, ending our reliance on China by enacting a domestic purchasing requirement of PPE for the Strategic National Stockpile and supporting Made in America manufacturing and job creation.\r\nProtects critical U.S. minerals whose supply chain is vulnerable to disruption and serve an essential function to the manufacturing of energy, defense, currency, agriculture, health care, electronic products. Will streamline and expedite permitting of these minerals to accelerate American manufacturing.\r\n \r\nSupport for the United States Postal Service\r\n \r\nThis relief package makes the $10 billion loan extended to the United States Postal Service (USPS) in the CARES Act a forgivable grant.\r\n\r\nDaines will continue working to pass his bill to provide $25 billion to USPS to help cover revenue loss from COVID-19.\r\nDaines also will continue to push his USPS Fairness Act which would lift the unfair financial burden of \"pre-funding\" retiree health benefits, which no other federal agency or private company is required to do, and would save the USPS $33.9 billion.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Farmers and Ranchers\r\n \r\nProvides $20 billion of additional farm assistance to assist farmers and ranchers negatively impacted by low commodity prices and supply chain challenges due to the pandemic.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Tribal Communities\r\n \r\nExtends the use for the Coronavirus Relief Fund until the fall of 2021 to ensure our tribal members have the time to get access to the critical resources needs to keep their communities safe.\r\nProvides $605 million to Indian Health Services to support preventing and stopping the spread of COVID-19 through Indian Health Service, Tribal, and Urban Indian health programs.\r\nProvides $1 billion for Indian Health Facilities to assist with sanitation, isolation or quarantine space, and other medical equipment needs to keep tribal communities healthy and safe.\r\n \r\nBackground:\r\nDaines announced earlier this week the major Montana priorities that were included in the targeted relief package.\r\nDaines will continue to work to build bipartisan consensus to get relief into the hands of Montanans struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-administration-to-provide-support-for-montana-census-ensure-all-montanans-are-represented", "Daines Urges Administration to Provide Support for Montana Census, Ensure All Montanans are Represented", "2020-09-10", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.10.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges Administration to Provide Support for Montana Census, Ensure All Montanans are Represented \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines yesterday sent a letter urging the Administration to direct additional Census resources to Montana in the final weeks of the field data collection operations to ensure all Montanans are represented.\r\nGiven the rural nature of Montana and the additional challenges brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of Montanans may go uncounted and entire communities could be underrepresented at the federal level, Daines wrote. I am requesting that trained Census personnel from states which are nearing full enumeration be relocated to Montana as soon as possible.\r\nTo read the full letter, click HERE.\r\nMuch of Montana remains historically undercounted. Ensuring an accurate Census count is critical to potentially gaining more representation in Congress and securing additional federal resources for Montana communities.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article\n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-feinstein-secure-hearing-for-bipartisan-forest-management-bill-urge-quick-passage", "Daines, Feinstein Secure Hearing for Bipartisan Forest Management Bill, Urge Quick Passage", "2020-09-09", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.09.20\n\t\t\t Daines, Feinstein Secure Hearing for Bipartisan Forest Management Bill, Urge Quick Passage \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Dianne Feinstein today announced that their bipartisan forest management reform bill has been given a hearing date in the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee next week.This announcement follows Daines' and Feinstein's direct request to the committee for a hearing. Daines serves as Montana's voice on the Committee.\r\nAs deadly wildfires continue to spread across Montana and the West, it is important now more than ever that we advance this bipartisan forest management reform bill, Daines said. This hearing will demonstrate how our legislation will help protect at-risk communities, create jobs and contain wildfires before they get out of hand.\r\nMore than 2 million acres have already burned this year in California, and the situation is getting worse by the day, Feinstein said. This is a crisis all across the Western United States. We need the ability to responsibly clear dead trees and other biomass that will otherwise feed these destructive and often deadly wildfires. I'm pleased our bipartisan bill will receive a hearing and hope it quickly moves through the Senate. We can't afford to do nothing while these fires get worse every year.\r\nDaines and Feinstein today also sent a letter to Senate Leadership urging quick passage of their bipartisan bill given the recent catastrophic wildfires in Montana, California and the West.\r\nThe letter states: If we don't take strong action now, we worry that what's happening to California and Montana will soon become the new normal in every state in the West. We urge you to help us pass this important, bipartisan piece of legislation as quickly as possible.\r\nTo read the full letter, click HERE.\r\nThebipartisan bill will create good paying timber jobs, reduce frivolous litigation, protect wildlife habitats and air and water quality and reduce the risk of wildfire in at-risk communities. Daines and Feinstein's bill is also critical during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic because wildfires could make conditions worse for those with health risks and respiratory illnesses and place wildland firefighters at even greater risk.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-action-on-grizzly-bear-delisting-in-senate-committee-", "Daines Urges Action on Grizzly Bear Delisting in Senate Committee", "2020-09-09", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.09.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges Action on Grizzly Bear Delisting in Senate Committee  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Invites FWS Director Skipwith to Montana to Discuss Grizzly Bear Management\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today testified in aU.S. Senate Committee in support ofhis bill, theGrizzly Bear State ManagementAct,which would delist the grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, return management to the State of Montana and prevent further obstruction in the courts.\r\n\r\nTo download the full video, click HERE.\r\nWildlife management should be determined by science, not a court order. The science has long proven that the grizzly bear population in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem has fully recovered, Daines said. Delisting the grizzly bear is in the best interest of our communities, public safety, the ecosystem, wildlife, and the grizzly bear itself. Montana has proven they can conserve and manage the species and it's time to return management to the state. \r\n\r\nAt the hearing, Daines introduced witness and fellow Montanan Chuck Roady who is the Vice President and General Manager of the F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Company and the President of the Federal Forest Resource Coalition. At the hearing, Roady spoke in favor of Daines' bill, urging its passage.\r\nSenator Daines also sent a letter inviting U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Aurelia Skipwith to Montana to discuss grizzly bear recovery and management across the state.\r\nThe letter states: Given these new developments and the importance of grizzly bear conservation and management to the state, I would like to invite you to join me in the Golden Triangle Area in Montana this October to see firsthand how grizzly bear populations have rebounded and hear from landowners and wildlife partners on the importance of proper management.\r\nTo read the full letter, click HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nOn March 6th, 2020, Daines announced the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) responded to his frequent pleas for better management surrounding grizzly bears and human conflict in Montana.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-announces-133-billion-contract-for-malmstrom-defense-project", "Daines Announces $13.3 Billion Contract for Malmstrom Defense Project", "2020-09-08", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines Announces $13.3 Billion Contract for Malmstrom Defense Project \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the U.S. Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a $13.3 billion contract to begin the major engineering design work for the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program at Malmstrom Air Force Base.\r\nThis critical funding will help support Malmstrom's mission and strengthen our nation's defense systems, Daines said. I will continue working to ensure that Montana's national security priorities are met and that our facilities at Malmstrom have the resources needed to keep our country safe.\r\nThis funding marks the second of three major milestones before Malmstrom begins replacing its Minuteman III missiles which are nearing 50 years in service.\r\nFunding for this GBSD project will be used to complete design and development work before entering full rate production.\r\nDaines has been a strong supporter of the GBSD program in the National Defense Authorization Act over the years. To follow Daines' work in support of our national defense, click HERE.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-urges-president-trump-to-support-funding-for-the-national-guard-in-montana-amid-the-covid-19-pandemic", "Daines Urges President Trump to Support Funding for the National Guard in Montana Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic", "2020-09-08", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines Urges President Trump to Support Funding for the National Guard in Montana Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today sent a letter to President Trump urging the administration to fully fund National Guard operations in Montana amid the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nRestoring the one hundred percent Federal cost-share for all National Guard units will allow it to continue to execute the numerous tasks required for our nation's response to the threat COVID-19 poses, Daines wrote. The National Guard has lessened the impacts of the virus in many ways including support to community-based testing sites, distributing millions of meals to Americans in need, as well as aiding our front line health workers that provide care to COVID-19 patients in hospitals and clinics across the nation.\r\nUnder a previous decision, a one hundred percent Federal cost-share was provided to all states and territories in order to support the COVID-19 response. Recently it was decided that the federal cost-share should be reduced despite the continued need across the country.\r\nDaines is calling on President Trump to restore the previous Federal cost-share levels in order to maintain a timely and effective response to the COVID-19 outbreak, without putting an unnecessary burden on Montana and states across the country.\r\nTo read the full letter, click HERE.\r\nBackground:\r\nDaines has been strong advocate in supporting the Montana National Guard as they respond to COVID-19.\r\nOn August 7th, 2020 Daines sent a letter urging President Trump to provide the State of Montana the same consideration as states like Texas and Florida regarding cost sharing for ongoing National Guard operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nOn May 28th, 2020, Daines successfully secured extended orders for National Guard members to protect their benefits while serving during the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement follows Daines' request to President Trump to extend the orders.\r\nOn May 14th, 2020, Daines sent a letter urging Senate leadership to temporarily lower the minimum requirement for a satisfactory year of service to accommodate National Guard personnel who are unable to drill and acquire points towards retirement because of the COVID-19 outbreak.\r\nOn April 14th, 2020, Daines brought lunch from Bozeman's Chalet Market to Montana National Guard troops serving at the Bozeman airport to thank them for protecting Montana communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also shared news that following his request to President Trump, Montana National Guard members responding to the Coronavirus pandemic will be eligible for healthcare benefits (TRICARE coverage) and housing benefits and that he would sending a letter to President Trump urging the administration to give hazard pay to National Guard troops serving during COVID-19.\r\nOn April 2nd, 2020, Daines sent a letter yesterday to President Trump urging him to permit National Guard members responding to the Coronavirus pandemic in our communities to be eligible for TRICARE coverage.\r\nDaines has also been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-we-must-work-together-on-targeted-covid-19-relief-for-montana-", "Daines: We Must Work Together on Targeted COVID-19 Relief for Montana", "2020-09-08", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.08.20\n\t\t\t Daines: We Must Work Together on Targeted COVID-19 Relief for Montana  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Senate COVID-19 Bill Unveiled with Several Montana Priorities Including Support for Montana Workers, Families, Schools, Childcare, Vaccine Development\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t U.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today highlighted several Montana priorities in the Senate COVID-19 relief package which will be voted on this week. The relief package will provide relief for Montana workers, families, schools, small businesses as well as expand access to testing and promote vaccine development.\r\nThis targeted relief package will help Montana families, workers and small businesses bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as provide funding for Montana schools to keep students and teachers safe and advance vaccine development to help us get back to normal, Daines said. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to work together on important targeted relief as the fight against COVID-19 continues.\r\nNext COVID-19 Relief Package:\r\nSupports Montana Small Businesses, Provides More Funding for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)\r\n \r\nIncludes $257.7 billion to replenish the PPP which helps keep Montana small businesses open and workers on the payroll.\r\n\r\nSecond round of PPP for Montana's hardest-hit businesses.\r\nExpands PPP eligibility to include certain 501(c)(6)\r\n\r\nMontana local organizations, including Chambers of Commerce, Destination Marketing Organizations, and Outdoor Recreation Organizations with 300 or fewer employees will be eligible for PPP loans.This is something Daines specifically worked to include.\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nStreamlined forgiveness for loans below $150,000.\r\n\r\nMontana small business owners who borrowed below $150,000 will not be required to submit to the lender documentation required by theCARESAct, if the borrower submits a simple, one-page attestation form to their lender. This is consistent with the Paycheck Protection Small Business Expense Forgiveness Act, which Daines cosponsored. \r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\nIncludes liability protections for Montana businesses, hospitals, schools, non-profits, and others\r\n\r\nAllows Montana businesses to reopen without fear of frivolous lawsuits\r\nPromotes nationwide uniformity in COVID-related medical malpractice and personal injury cases.\r\n\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Workers and Jobs\r\n \r\nProvides supplemental Unemployment Insurance payments for Montanans who lost their jobs\r\n\r\nContinues the unemployment insurance payments for Montanans who lost their jobs due to COVID-19 at $300 per week through December 27th.\r\nExtends the authorization for unemployment benefits for those covered under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act through December 27th.\r\n\r\nStreamlines and expedites permitting of critical minerals to accelerate American manufacturing and support good paying jobs\r\n \r\nPrioritizes Public Health and Safety, Provides Significant Funding for Testing\r\n \r\nIncludes $16 billion to expand access to testing for COVID-19, including covering costs for testing equipment and testing supplies and personal protective equipment needed to administer tests.\r\n \r\nProvides Funding for the Manufacturing and Distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines & Treatments\r\n \r\nProvides $31 billion for vaccine, therapeutic and diagnostic development; vaccine distribution; the Strategic National Stockpile and grants for the establishment of state stockpiles.\r\n\r\nSpecifically, $20 billion is included for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority to support the manufacturing, production, and purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics that will help to restore confidence in our communities to continue safely reopening  something Daines was instrumental in securing.\r\n\r\nReminder: Daines has been instrumental in securing funding for a COVID-19 vaccine and his work has been publicly praised by President Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, FDA Deputy Commissioner Dr. Anand Shah and former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n$6 billion is included for the CDC to support the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure that Montanans and Americans will have access to a safe and effective vaccine as soon as one becomes available.\r\n \r\nSupport for Montana Schools, Education, Child Care \r\n \r\nProvides $105 billion to schools across the country as the academic year kicks off.\r\n \r\n \r\nProvides $15 billion for child care services and providers.\r\n \r\n\r\nSupports Bringing Jobs Back to America and Holds China Accountable\r\n \r\nStrengthens U.S. medical supply chain, ending our reliance on China by enacting a domestic purchasing requirement of PPE for the Strategic National Stockpile and supporting Made in America manufacturing and job creation.\r\n \r\n \r\nProtects critical U.S. minerals whose supply chain is vulnerable to disruption and serve an essential function to the manufacturing of energy, defense, currency, agriculture, health care, electronic products. Will streamline and expedite permitting of these minerals to accelerate American manufacturing.\r\n \r\nSupport for the United States Postal Service\r\n \r\nThis relief package makes the $10 billion loan extended to the United States Postal Service (USPS) in the CARES Act a forgivable grant.\r\n\r\nDaines is also pushing his bipartisan bill to provide $25 billion to the USPS.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Farmers and Ranchers\r\n \r\nProvides $20 billion of additional farm assistance to assist farmers and ranchers negatively impacted by low commodity prices and supply chain challenges due to the pandemic.\r\n \r\nSupports Montana Tribal Communities\r\n \r\nExtends the use for the Coronavirus Relief Fund until the fall of 2021 to ensure our tribal members have the time to get access to the critical resources needs to keep their communities safe.\r\nProvides $605 million to Indian Health Services to support preventing and stopping the spread of COVID-19 through Indian Health Service, Tribal, and Urban Indian health programs.\r\nProvides $1 billion for Indian Health Facilities to assist with sanitation, isolation or quarantine space, and other medical equipment needs to keep tribal communities healthy and safe.\r\n \r\nBackground: \r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-516000-towards-boosting-manufacturing-jobs-through-the-montana-manufacturing-extension-center", "Daines Secures $516,000 Towards Boosting Manufacturing Jobs Through the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center", "2020-09-04", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.04.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures $516,000 Towards Boosting Manufacturing Jobs Through the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will be directing $516,000 to Montana State University for the operation of the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center through the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program.\r\nThis critical funding will help continue to boost and promote manufacturing in Big Sky Country, Daines said. I will continue working to prioritize programs that support made in Montana manufacturing and that create good paying jobs for our communities.\r\nDaines has been a strong supporter of MEP programs and Montana manufacturing, voting to secure funding for this public-private partnership.\r\nThe Montana Manufacturing Extension Center is a statewide manufacturing assistance center hosted at Montana State University. In 2019, the center helped sustain 349 high paying jobs and $54 Million in Montana sales.\r\nThe NIST program has awarded more than $36 million in annual funding to organizations across America as part of its efforts to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers. Over the past two decades the MEP program has worked with more than 86,000 manufacturers leading to $96.4 billion in sales, $15.7 billion in cost savings and has helped create nearly 800,000 jobs.\r\nStatement of Support:\r\nWith this grant MMEC will be able to continue to serve Montana's manufacturers and value-added agriculture businesses in their efforts to grow, innovate and compete internationally. - Paddy Fleming, Director,Montana Manufacturing Extension Center\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-secures-over-4-million-to-bolster-montana-housing-infrastructure-community-development-amid-the-covid-19-pandemic", "Daines Secures Over $4 Million to Bolster Montana Housing Infrastructure, Community Development Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic", "2020-09-04", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Steve Daines", "D000618", "www.daines.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "09.04.20\n\t\t\t Daines Secures Over $4 Million to Bolster Montana Housing Infrastructure, Community Development Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. SENATE  U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that $4,039,203 will be directed to Montana through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to support housing needs and infrastructure development for Montana communities during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.\r\nThis critical funding is about supporting Montana's housing infrastructure needs and community development during the ongoing COVD-19 pandemic, Daines said. I'm glad to have worked to secure this critical support for our communities and I will continue working to ensure the needs of Montana are met during these challenging times.\r\nDaines fought to secure $5 billion for the CDBG in the CARES Act. These funds support public health, housing and economic disruption needs in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.\r\nOf the $4,039,203, $522,153 will be distributed to the City of Billings, $236,375 to the City of Great Falls, $365,227 to the City of Missoula and $2,915,448 will be distributed to the State of Montana.\r\nBackground: \r\nDaines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak impacting the country.To read about Daines' COVID-19 related efforts, clickHERE.\r\nOn May 6th, 2020, Daines announced that $3,325,357 will be directed to Montana through the CDBG program to support housing needs and infrastructure development for Montana communities during the coronavirus outbreak.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n  \n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tNext Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://gianforte.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/tech-company-expanding-bozeman-operations-new-building", "Tech company expanding Bozeman operations with new building", "2020-09-03", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "MT", "Greg Gianforte", "G000584", "gianforte.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "A high-tech company in Bozeman is expanding into a new 62,000-square-foot facility off East Valley Center Road, where it will develop equipment that will be used in hundreds of military and civilian applications.\nFLIR Systems has three smaller facilities in the Bozeman area and is planning to consolidate them into a single building that is now under construction on Jamboree Way near Taco Bell and Comfort Suites.\nThe new building, which will be finished next year, will let the company grow, said Randy Equall, the company's vice president of laser operations.\nWe're bursting at the seams in our current plant, and this will be instrumental in allowing us to contribute to growing high-tech jobs in Montana, Equall said.\nWith the new facility, FLIR Systems hopes to expand its research and development work with Montana State University and possibly bring on moreGallatin College studentstrained in the school's photonics and laser technology program.\nU.S. Sen. Steve Dainesand Rep. Greg Gianforte toured the FLIR Systems site Wednesday.\nThe Republican lawmakers said FLIR Systems' success highlights the importance of investing in education because it can lead to innovation and attract high-paying jobs to the area.\nFLIR Systems arrived in Bozeman in 2005 after acquiring the local company Scientific Materials, which grew synthetic crystals.\nFLIR Systems' main offices are in Oregon, but it has offices around the world. Its Bozeman location focuses on developing synthetic crystals just as Scientific Materials did. The crystals are used in high-tech equipment like lasers.\nThe company also develops range-finders for defense and border protection agencies.\nScientific Materials and FLIR Systems both chose to locate and expand in Bozeman because MSU could provide graduates with the skills necessary to work in the company, Equall said. Today, many of the 65 employees are MSU graduates.\nWe couldn't imagine doing this anywhere else, he said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 456, "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 \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Republican", "p1": "MT", "p2": "2020"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 456, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=MT&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 441, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 15, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "MT", "label": "MT", "count": 456, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 456, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2020-09-03,https~3A~2F~2Fgianforte~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fin-the-news~2Ftech-company-expanding-bozeman-operations-new-building", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=MT&year=2020&_next=2020-09-03%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fgianforte~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia-center~2Fin-the-news~2Ftech-company-expanding-bozeman-operations-new-building&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 117.00423900038004, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}