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76 rows where chamber = "House", state = "MT" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending

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url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downing-honors-denton-educator-ty-neal-september-montana-innovator Congressman Downing Honors Denton Educator Ty Neal as September “Montana Innovator” 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Ty Neal as a "Montana Innovator" for the month of September. Conducted in partnership with the Montana 250th Commission, the initiative highlights outstanding Montanans ahead of America's 250th anniversary. Each month features a different theme, with September recognizing achievements in education and academia. Read the full recognition below: "This month, I am proud to recognize Ty Neal, an agricultural mechanics teacher at Denton Public Schools who is preparing Montana students for careers in the skilled trades. Ty was recently named a winner of the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, a national honor that reflects the time, skill, and dedication he brings to his classroom and shop. Ty gives his students the opportunity to build real, hands-on skills they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. The skilled trades are essential to Montana. They keep our equipment running and help keep our communities strong. Every student who leaves Ty's classroom with practical experience and confidence is a reflection of his work. He is not simply teaching students how to use tools. He is helping give them a pathway to a good-paying job and a future here in Montana. This award will also bring new resources to Denton's skilled trades program, creating even more opportunities for students in the years ahead. Montana needs teachers like Ty Neal, and Denton Public Schools is fortunate to have him. It is my honor to recognize Ty as a Montana Innovator who represents the very best of education in our state." 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-bipartisan-bill-expand-capital-access-rural-job-creators-passes DOWNING’S BIPARTISAN BILL TO EXPAND CAPITAL ACCESS FOR RURAL JOB CREATORS PASSES SENATE, HEADS TO PRESIDENT’S DESK 2026-09-30 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 1190, Congressman Troy Downing’s bipartisan Expanding Access to Capital for Rural Job Creators Act. The legislation would help rural small businesses overcome barriers to accessing capital. The bill updates the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by requiring the SEC’s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to report annually on the unique challenges rural businesses face when seeking investment. These reports will give Congress better information as it considers ways to improve access to capital for rural job creators. “Rural small businesses are essential to communities across Montana, but too many still face unnecessary barriers when trying to access capital,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud of our legislation, which will help make sure rural businesses are no longer overlooked when Congress considers how to expand access to capital and support job creation.” "Rural small businesses shouldn’t have to work twice as hard just because of their ZIP code,” said Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05), the bill’s co-lead. “The Senate passing this bill gets us one step closer to changing that. Rural entrepreneurs have the ideas and the hustle. They deserve a fair shot to grow them into something bigger." Senator John Kennedy (R-LA.) led the U.S. Senate companion bill to passage. “Rural small businesses are the backbone of many communities across America, but too many face challenges accessing capital. I’m glad the Senate passed our bill to make sure Congress understands those challenges and help rural job creators grow their businesses, create jobs and serve their communities,” said Senator Kennedy. Read the bill HERE. Background: The SEC’s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation is required to identify problems that small businesses face when securing access to capital and submit an annual report to Congress. Currently, the Office’s list of applicable entities are minority-owned, women-owned, and disaster-stricke… 1 2026-10-01T11:23:28Z 2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-0 CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION SIGNED INTO LAW BY PRESIDENT TRUMP 2026-09-28 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Trump signed H.R. 7250 into law, Congressman Troy Downing’s legislation extending authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The law allows critical water infrastructure projects across northeastern Montana to continue moving forward. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide safe and reliable municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Rural Water System. Together, these systems serve tribal and non-tribal communities across Roosevelt, Sheridan, Daniels, and Valley counties. H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure serving the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities through December 2028. "I’m proud that the President has signed my bill, H.R. 7250, into law. This legislation will help keep critical water projects moving forward and provide greater certainty for families and communities across northeastern Montana," said Congressman Downing. "Reliable water infrastructure is essential to the future of this region. I’m grateful to the Montana delegation for working together to get this bill through Congress and signed into law.” “This is a major win for the Treasure State. Montanans should never have to worry about whether or not their water is safe to drink. Now that President Trump has signed our bill into law, we’ll be able to continue critical construction on water infrastructure on the Fort Peck reservation and throughout the northeast region. I’m grateful for everyone who helped get this bill across the finish line and look forward to seeing the impacts this will have for the health and future of our communities,” said Senator Steve Daines. “Clean, reliable water is a basic necessity, and Montanans in our rural and tribal communities deserve nothing less. I’m proud to see this commonsense bill cross the finish line, and I thank … 1 2026-09-29T11:07:12Z 2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL CROW TRIBE WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT AMENDMENTS ACT PASSES BOTH CHAMBERS OF CONGRESS, HEADS TO PRESIDENT’S DESK 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the U.S. Senate. Senator Steve Daines spearheaded the bill in the Senate, while Congressman Troy Downing championed it in the House of Representatives. The legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward. The original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana. It authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system. S. 240 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation. In addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation. “Today, S. 240, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the U.S. Senate. This legislation gives the Crow Tribe greater flexibility to develop critical water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects moving forward on the reservation. We must continue honoring our commitments to the Crow Tribe and strengthening Montana’s water infrastructure," said Congressman Downing. "Thank you to Senator Daines for leading this bill in the Senate and sending it to the President’s desk." “This bill is a necessity for the Crow Tribe and surrounding communities and will ensure the tribe has the resources they need to deliver safe, reliable access to clean water to the reservation and complete a hydropower project to bring new ba… 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-op-ed-washington-examiner-inherit-million-you-can-invest-have ICYMI: DOWNING OP-ED IN THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER: Inherit a million? You can invest. Have an economics doctorate? The SEC says you’re too dumb 2026-09-24 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Troy Downing penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting his new bill, H.R.9574, The Informed Investor Access Act. The legislation would break down barriers to capital markets by creating a new route to accredited-investor status for a specific transaction when an individual receives personalized investment advice or a recommendation from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer. Read the Washington Examiner op-edHERE. September 22, 2026 Are some people simply not rich enough to build the American dream? America’s capital markets are the most dynamic in the world. They are ripe with opportunity. Our nation’s business ecosystem is better because of them. The American dream of entrepreneurship and prosperity is possible through our robust capital markets. Too many people are locked out of important parts of those markets for one simple reason: They are not rich enough. Most investors can only directly invest in publicly traded companies, which make up less than 1% of all U.S. businesses. They have virtually no access to nonpublic, or private, investment opportunities. In other words, they have no access to investments that help the rich get richer. The number of publicly available stock investment options has declined by nearly 50% since the 1990s, which means fewer investment opportunities for hardworking Montanans. That is the effect of the outdated “accredited investor” framework. Publicly traded companies are subject to the highest degree of disclosure requirements from the Securities and Exchange Commission. The strict requirements, along with their direct costs to the investor, create a transparent but also very expensive option, which is why everyone has access. Nonpublic companies are not subject to these same rules, so the federal government has long held that only “sophisticated” investors are allowed to participate in these markets. The problem is the false equivalency between sophistication and wealth. This foreclosure on access… 1 2026-09-25T10:04:52Z 2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES BOTH CHAMBERS OF CONGRESS 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 7250, Congressman Troy Downing’s legislation to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The bill now heads to the President’s desk, allowing critical water infrastructure projects across northeastern Montana to continue moving forward. H.R. 7250 amends the existing authorization by extending its expiration from 2026 to 2028. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide safe and reliable municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Rural Water System. Together, these systems serve tribal and non-tribal communities across Roosevelt, Sheridan, Daniels, and Valley counties. H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure serving the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities through December 2028. “Access to clean, reliable water is essential for families and communities across northeastern Montana,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud the Senate passed my bill to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System after the House approved it earlier this year. This legislation is now headed to the President’s desk and will help keep critical water infrastructure projects moving forward for the Fort Peck Reservation and surrounding communities. “This is huge news for northeast Montana! Access to safe and reliable water infrastructure is an absolute necessity, and reauthorizing the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act will help provide clean water for Montana communities. Thank you Representative Downing for your work to get this through the U.S. House- now let’s get it signed into law!” said U.S. Senator Steve Daines. House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing’s work to strengthen water infrastructure in northea… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act-0 CONGRESSMAN DOWNING'S CROW TRIBE WATER RIGHTS SETTLEMENT AMENDMENTS ACT PASSES HOUSE 2026-09-16 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 240, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, legislation led by Senator Steve Daines in the Senate and championed by Congressman Troy Downing in the House. The bill now heads to the President’s desk. The legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward. The original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana and authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system. S. 240 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation. In addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation. “Access to clean and reliable water is critical for the Crow Tribe and the communities it serves,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud the House passed this legislation and sent it to the President’s desk. I want to thank Senator Daines for leading this effort in the Senate and helping move it across the finish line. The bill gives the Tribe greater flexibility to develop water and wastewater projects that meet local needs, while also allowing for hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. This bipartisan legislation honors our commitments to the Crow Tribe and invests in Montana’s future.” “The federal government must ensure tribal water settlements work as intended. S. 240 gives the C… 1 2026-09-17T09:52:05Z 2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-op-ed-washington-reporter-affordable-care-act-need-reform ICYMI: DOWNING OP-ED IN THE WASHINGTON REPORTER — THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT IS IN NEED OF REFORM 2026-09-14 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) penned an op-ed in the Washington Reporter on the need to reform the Affordable Care Act. Read the full op-ed HERE. "Access to affordable health care is one of the most critical issues facing Montana today. The Affordable Care Act needs reform. Costs keep rising, fewer healthy people are staying in the market, and coverage gets more expensive every year. When I was Montana’s Insurance Commissioner, I oversaw the rate filings for the plans sold in our state, year after year. My job was to make sure premiums were actuarially sound. It is a delicate balance between what it costs to deliver care, reimbursement rates for providers, and premiums families can afford to pay. I worked hard to understand all sides of that equation. You have probably heard some say that insurance premiums in Montana increased due to Congress not extending the enhanced premium tax credits and allowing them to expire. Those credits were a temporary fix passed during the COVID pandemic, aimed at a small set of the individual market and never meant to last beyond the COVID crisis. These insurance company credits expired, as designed. In reality, extending these credits would not have affected most Montanans and would have moved the Montana premiums by only single digits, and only for a small part of our market. The increases we saw across the board this year came from a much larger and older problem. That problem is adverse selection. In other words, premiums go up every year, and every year some people decide the coverage is no longer worth the cost. Those who leave the market are often younger and healthier. When they leave, the concentration of higher-cost individuals gets larger, the costs to the insurer rise, and premiums rise for everyone still paying for the plan. Young, healthy Montanans increasingly do not see value in the coverage they are being asked to buy at the prices available. We need to win them back with coverage that is worth the price. We cannot subsidize ourselves … 1 2026-09-15T09:50:21Z 2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-announces-introduction-river-runs-through-it-act Zinke Announces Introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act 2026-09-09 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Missoula, MT – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act (ARRTI), a locally developed public lands package bringing together more than two decades of work by communities throughout the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Zinke announced the legislation at Smoke Elzer Barn in Missoula, alongside local elected officials, members of the timber industry, sportsmen, recreation groups, and conservation organizations who helped shape the proposal. ARRTI brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Proposal and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal into a single landscape-scale plan encompassing approximately 430,000 acres in the Blackfoot Valley. The legislation puts multiple use at the center by expanding recreation opportunities, allowing for forest restoration, and conserving public lands while supporting timber work, reducing wildfire risk, and protecting public access. “This is what locally led conservation looks like,” said Zinke. “We can put people to work in the woods, support our timber industry, reduce wildfire risk, and keep our forests healthy while protecting public access and conserving the iconic places we cherish. This proposal was built by the people who live, work, hunt, and recreate in the Blackfoot, and after decades of work they found a way forward that keeps this landscape working for everybody.” What the A River Runs Through It Act Does Expands active forest management and timber production. The bill designates six Forest Restoration Areas totaling roughly 180,000 acres where timber harvest, thinning, vegetation management, prescribed fire, stream restoration, and other projects can improve forest health and put more wood products to work in Montana. Increases forest management around Lincoln. The Lincoln Prosperity portion of the bill prioritizes fuel reduction and forest restoration west of Lincoln to reduce wildfire risks to homes and infrastructure, while allowing forest and stream restoration, vegetation management, and ot… 1 2026-09-10T09:25:58Z 2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-no-hud-funding-sanctuary-cities-act DOWNING INTRODUCES NO HUD FUNDING FOR SANCTUARY CITIES ACT 2026-09-02 2026 2026-09 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced HR 10222, the No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act, legislation that would make sanctuary jurisdictions ineligible for grant funding administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Under current law, jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement can still receive HUD grant funding. The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act would end that practice and ensure federal housing dollars are not directed to sanctuary jurisdictions. “If a sanctuary city is not complying with federal law, we should not allocate American taxpayers’ hard-earned money to those areas,” said Congressman Downing. “The American taxpayer should not be responsible for funding cities that choose to disregard federal immigration policy while law-abiding citizens are left to bear the cost.” Read the full bill text HERE. Statements of Support: “Sanctuary jurisdictions should not be rewarded with federal housing dollars while refusing to cooperate with federal immigration law. Rep. Downing’s No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act puts American taxpayers first and ensures federal resources are directed to communities that uphold the law rather than undermine it.” Michael Hough, Co-President, NumbersUSA “The number of sanctuary cities in the U.S. has surged in recent years, offering taxpayer-funded public services and housing assistance to millions of illegal aliens while blocking immigration enforcement. At the same time, mass illegal immigration has driven up housing demand, worsened affordability, and burdened public benefits programs. The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act takes commonsense steps to put an end to sanctuary cities and illegal immigration rather than rewarding those who break our laws. FAIR applauds Congressman Downing for putting Americans first and urges Congress to swiftly pass this bill." Joe Chatam, Director of Government Relations, Federation for American Immigration Reform "Sanctuary… 1 2026-09-03T09:29:33Z 2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-receives-rocky-mountain-elk-foundation-excellence-advocacy-award Zinke Receives Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Excellence in Advocacy Award 2026-08-21 2026 2026-08 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Missoula, M.T. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke received the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), recognizing his work to advance conservation, wildlife management, public access to public lands, and America’s hunting heritage. “RMEF has been one of the strongest conservation partners in Montana and across the West, and I’m honored to receive this award,” said Zinke. “From keeping public lands in public hands to improving elk migration corridors and restoring healthy forests, we share a belief that conservation works best when hunters, landowners, states, tribes, and federal managers are at the table. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and look forward to the next generation of leadership in this effort.” “Congressman Zinke has proven time and again through legislative leadership and action that he is committed to real conservation and America’s public lands,” said Kyle Weaver, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president and CEO. “His work crafting and advancing critical legislation resulted in impactful conservation outcomes, making him an invaluable ally to hunter-conservationists throughout our nation." The partnership between Zinke and RMEF extends back to his first term in the House of Representatives, when they worked together on federal forest management reforms that would later help shape provisions included in the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act. Zinke and RMEF also worked to oppose the sale of public lands and protect funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. That partnership expanded during Zinke’s time leading the Department of the Interior. In 2018, Zinke signed Secretarial Order 3362, launching a federal effort to improve western big-game winter range and migration corridors for elk, mule deer and pronghorn through partnerships with states, private landowners and conservation organizations. The initiative remains a major RMEF conservation priority and laid the groundwork for ongoing migration corridor work across the West. Bu… 1 2026-08-22T05:24:59Z 2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-visits-dry-redwater-regional-water-authority-highlights-progress-hr DOWNING VISITS DRY-REDWATER REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY, HIGHLIGHTS PROGRESS ON H.R. 8745 2026-08-14 2026 2026-08 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper SIDNEY, MT. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) joined members of the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority Board in Sidney to discuss progress on H.R. 8745, his legislation to authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System. During the meeting, Downing updated board members on the bill’s status in the House and discussed the federal authorization process, project timelines, and next steps for advancing the legislation through Congress. Congressman Downing with the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority Board “Eastern Montana has waited far too long for clean and reliable water,” said Congressman Downing. “The Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authorization Act will help move this critical project forward and deliver the infrastructure these communities need. I appreciate the work of the Dry-Redwater Regional Water Authority and will keep working to get this bill across the finish line.” H.R. 8745 would authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System, serving communities in Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, and Richland counties. These areas have historically faced poor water quality. The proposed system would include a water treatment plant, more than 1,300 miles of pipeline, 116 miles of electrical lines, 12 pump stations, and six storage tanks. Read the bill textHERE. Background Downing introduced H.R. 8745 in May 2026. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy. The Dry-Redwater Rural Water System is designed to expand access to clean and reliable water across eastern Montana and provide long-term infrastructure for rural communities in the region. 1 2026-08-15T05:23:20Z 2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-recognizes-erin-graf-july-montana-innovator DOWNING RECOGNIZES ERIN GRAF AS JULY “MONTANA INNOVATOR” 2026-07-30 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Erin Graf as a “Montana Innovator” for the month of July. Conducted in partnership with the Montana 250th Commission, the initiative highlights notable Montanans ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month features a different theme, with July honoring achievements in arts, culture, and literature. Read the full recognition below: "This month, I am proud to recognize Erin Graf, a Harlowton native who has dedicated her career to capturing the beauty of God’s creation through the landscapes of rural Montana. Erin studied fine art at Montana State University from 2001 to 2006, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking and a bachelor’s degree in K-12 art education. She also received MSU’s Award of Excellence for Art, presented to the top graduating students in the department. Primarily a self-taught oil painter, Erin became a full-time artist in 2015 after spending a decade coaching track and field at Montana State. In 2019, she held her first solo museum exhibition at the Great Plains Art Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska. The four-month exhibition, titled Montana: Prairies to Peaks, featured 35 works. Erin also served as the museum’s artist-in-residence, and two of her paintings were added to its permanent collection. Erin co-founded the Three Rivers Artists Guild and previously served as president of Southwest Montana Arts. She also served for five years as chair of the Bozeman Art Museum’s Board of Directors. Her work has appeared in numerous solo and group exhibitions, and she regularly uses her art to support important causes. Through her work, Erin shares Montana’s remarkable landscapes with audiences across the country. It is my honor to recognize her as a Montana Innovator who embodies the spirit of arts, culture, and literature in our state." 1 2026-07-31T07:49:23Z 2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-leads-letter-urging-sec-finalize-registered-offering-reform-proposal DOWNING LEADS LETTER URGING SEC TO FINALIZE REGISTERED OFFERING REFORM PROPOSAL 2026-07-27 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) led a letter urging the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins to finalize a proposal that would encourage capital formation and reduce burdensome regulations for certain registered securities offerings. The proposal would remove duplicative state review for registered offerings of unlisted securities, which will lower costs and expand investor access while preserving existing protections against fraud. The letter was signed by: Rep. Troy Downing (MT-02), Rep. Ann Wagner (MO-02), Rep. Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Rep. Andy Barr (KY-06), Rep. Dan Meuser (PA-09), Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-08), Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06), Rep. Michael Lawler (NY-17), Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14), Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Rep. William R. Timmons IV (SC-04), Rep. Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Rep. Young Kim (CA-40), Rep. John Rose (TN-06), Rep. Marlin A. Stutzman (IN-03), Rep. Pete Sessions (TX-17), and Rep. Mike Haridopolos (FL-08) Read the full letter HERE. ### 1 2026-07-28T07:37:32Z 2026-07-28T07:38:50Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-cosponsored-financial-services-bill-passes-house DOWNING-COSPONSORED FINANCIAL SERVICES BILL PASSES HOUSE 2026-07-21 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 6955, the Main Street Capital Access Act, legislation cosponsored by Congressman Troy Downing, to encourage new bank formation and help community lenders better serve families, small businesses, and rural communities across Montana. The Main Street Capital Access Act reduces regulatory barriers that have made it increasingly difficult to establish and grow community banks. For years, smaller financial institutions have been subjected to many of the same rules designed for the nation’s largest banks. These one-size-fits-all requirements have limited local lending and discouraged the creation of new banks, particularly in rural states like Montana. “Montana families and small businesses depend on community banks that understand their needs and are invested in the success of their towns,” said Congressman Downing. “Instead, Washington has buried these local lenders in one-size-fits-all rules meant for megabanks. The Main Street Capital Access Act cuts the red tape holding back community lending, makes it easier to establish new banks, and expands access to capital in rural communities. This bill puts Main Street ahead of Washington bureaucracy.” The legislation also strengthens transparency and accountability in the bank approval process while ensuring regulators remain focused on safety and soundness. By removing unnecessary barriers to entry, the bill will help expand financial services in underserved communities and give more Montanans access to trusted local lenders. ### 1 2026-07-22T07:34:13Z 2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downings-crow-tribe-water-rights-settlement-amendments-act-passes Congressman Downing's Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act Passes House Natural Resources Committee 2026-07-15 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing's bill, H.R. 726, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025, passed the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation updates the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2010 to provide the Crow Tribe with greater flexibility to develop water infrastructure and keep long-overdue projects on the reservation moving forward. The original settlement ratified the water rights compact between the Crow Tribe and the State of Montana and authorized the Bureau of Reclamation to rehabilitate the Crow Irrigation Project (CIP) and construct a Municipal, Rural, and Industrial (MR&I) water system. H.R. 726 modernizes that framework by converting the MR&I component from a single centralized project into a more flexible, localized approach. Instead of one large system, the legislation allows the Tribe to develop smaller water and wastewater projects tailored to the needs of individual communities across the reservation. In addition, the legislation extends the Crow Tribe's exclusive right to develop a hydropower project at the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam for five years, through 2030, helping support future energy development on the reservation. "Access to clean and reliable water is critical for the Crow Tribe and the communities it serves," said Congressman Downing. "I'm proud that H.R. 726 passed the House Natural Resources Committee. Advancing this legislation will provide the Tribe with the flexibility it needs to develop water and wastewater projects that work for local communities, as well as pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. This bipartisan legislation honors our commitments to the Crow Tribe and invests in Montana's future." Read the bill HERE. Background: The Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act of 2025 provides critical updates to the 2010 Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act without any additional federal expenditures or alterations to existing water rights. The original settlement authorized appro… 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-applauds-usfws-decision-grizzly-bears Zinke Applauds USFWS Decision on Grizzly Bears 2026-07-14 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke released the following statement applauding the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s publication of a draft revision to the January 2025 4(d) rule that would give states greater flexibility to manage grizzly bears. "This announcement is a long time coming and very good news for many communities and the wildlife within the Yellowstone ecosystem and across bear country," said Secretary Zinke. "Like the bald eagle before it, the recovery of the grizzly stands as one of America’s great conservation success stories - the culmination of decades of hard work and dedication on the part of the state, tribal, federal, and private partners. As a Montanan and former Secretary of the Interior who started this process, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. I trust our state wildlife professionals in managing the bear population according to the best science going forward, as they do all our wildlife.” Background Since serving as Secretary of the Interior and throughout his time in Congress, Zinke has led efforts to delist recovered grizzly bear populations and return management authority to Montana and other western states. In June 2017, as Secretary of the Interior, Zinke announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s final rule delisting the recovered Greater Yellowstone grizzly population. In February 2023, Zinke joined Rep. Harriet Hageman in introducing H.R. 1245, the Grizzly Bear State Management Act, to reinstate the 2017 delisting rule. In July 2023, Zinke secured House Appropriations Committee approval of his amendment to delist Greater Yellowstone grizzlies in the FY24 Interior Appropriations bill. In February 2025, Zinke led a congressional letter urging President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to reverse Biden-era grizzly policies and return management authority to the states. In July 2025, Zinke secured language in the FY26 Interior Appropriations bill directing the delisting of the Greater Yellowstone, Northern Continental Divide, and Bitterroot … 1 2026-07-16T07:21:44Z 2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-whole-home-repairs-act-included-21st-century-road-housing-act-becomes DOWNING’S WHOLE-HOME REPAIRS ACT INCLUDED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ROAD TO HOUSING ACT BECOMES LAW 2026-07-11 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, comprehensive legislation to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing programs, and support affordable housing nationwide becomes law. Congressman Troy Downing’s Whole-Home Repairs Act, legislation to support essential home repairs was included in the package. Downing’s bill, the Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2025, authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to offer grants for essential home repair assistance to low-and-moderate-income homeowners and small landlords. “Housing affordability remains a major challenge for families across Montana and across the country,” said Congressman Downing. “This bill is a step forward in addressing the needs of homeowners and renters. I’m proud that my Whole-Home Repairs Act was included in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to leverage federal, state, and local partnerships and strengthen our existing housing stock. With too many Montana families cost burdened and many homes in need of repair, this funding could not come at a better time.” The broader legislation includes several reforms aimed at expanding housing supply and modernizing federal housing policy. The bill eliminates the permanent chassis requirement for manufactured homes, an outdated federal mandate that required manufactured homes to be built on a permanent steel frame. Removing this requirement will help lower costs and allow more design flexibility for prefabricated housing. The legislation also includes important community banking provisions. It allows community banks to hold more custodial and reciprocal deposits without triggering brokered deposit restrictions. It also provides exam relief for banks with up to $6 billion in assets and streamlines the process for new community banks to form. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act also creates a two-year pilot program to support the creation of new community banks, especially in rural areas. ### 1 2026-07-12T07:28:31Z 2026-07-12T07:30:18Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-downing-introduces-informed-investor-access-act-expand-investment Congressman Downing Introduces Informed Investor Access Act to Expand Investment Opportunities 2026-07-02 2026 2026-07 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Informed Investor Access Act, legislation to modernize the definition of an “accredited investor” and expand access to private investment opportunities for Americans receiving professional financial advice. Under current law, accredited investor status is primarily based on income and net worth thresholds. This framework often limits certain investment opportunities to individuals who already have significant wealth, while excluding others who may be financially sophisticated or working with regulated financial professionals. The Informed Investor Access Act would create a new pathway for individuals receiving personalized investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer to qualify as accredited investors for the applicable transaction. “Building wealth should not be reserved only for those who are already wealthy,” said Congressman Downing. “The current accredited investor framework creates a self-reinforcing barrier. Too often, Americans need wealth to access the investments that can help build wealth. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes this outdated standard by recognizing financial sophistication and professional guidance, not just income and net worth.” Critically, the legislation expands access without weakening investor protections. Registered investment advisers are subject to fiduciary duties under the Investment Advisers Act. Broker-dealers are held to Regulation Best Interest standards under the Securities Exchange Act. These standards require financial professionals to consider a client’s financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance when making recommendations. “As Montana’s former securities and insurance regulator, I know investor protection and capital formation go hand in hand,” continued Congressman Downing. “This bill allows hardworking Americans to grow their wealth through new investment opportunities while keeping important guardrails i… 1 2026-07-03T08:00:00Z 2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-encourages-montana-students-apply-2026-patriot-games Zinke Encourages Montana Students to Apply for 2026 Patriot Games 2026-06-30 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke encouraged Montana students ages 14–17 to consider applying for the 2026 Patriot Games, a national competition highlighting leadership, athleticism, teamwork, and character as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration. The Patriot Games, organized through Freedom250, will bring together student-athletes from across the United States, territories, and tribal nations to compete in a series of physical and team-based challenges. The event will award $250,000 in scholarships to top competitors and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN platforms, including a primetime special on ABC. “This is a great chance for Montana students to compete, meet kids from all over the country, have some fun, and maybe earn a $250,000 scholarship along the way.” Zinke said. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to step onto the national stage and represent their state and country.” Applications are currently open at Freedom250.org and are due July 10, 2026. Selected participants will compete August 9–11, 2026, with final programming airing August 13 on ESPN and ABC. Families, coaches, and educators across Montana are also encouraged to share the opportunity with eligible students who demonstrate leadership, resilience, and a strong commitment to excellence. Eligibility: Students ages 14–17 Application Deadline: July 10, 2026 Competition Dates: August 9–11, 2026 Scholarship: $250,000 Students can submit a short video and basic information at: Freedom250.org ### 1 2026-07-01T06:34:07Z 2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-whole-home-repairs-act-included-21st-century-road-housing-act-set DOWNING’S WHOLE-HOME REPAIRS ACT INCLUDED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ROAD TO HOUSING ACT SET TO BECOME LAW 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, comprehensive legislation to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing programs, and support affordable housing nationwide. Congressman Troy Downing’s Whole-Home Repairs Act, legislation to support essential home repairs was included in the package. Downing’s bill, the Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2025, authorizes the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to offer grants for essential home repair assistance to low-and-moderate-income homeowners and small landlords. “Housing affordability remains a major challenge for families across Montana and across the country,” said Congressman Downing. “This bill is a step forward in addressing the needs of homeowners and renters. I’m proud that my Whole-Home Repairs Act was included in the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act to leverage federal, state, and local partnerships and strengthen our existing housing stock. With too many Montana families cost burdened and many homes in need of repair, this funding could not come at a better time.” The broader legislation includes several reforms aimed at expanding housing supply and modernizing federal housing policy. The bill eliminates the permanent chassis requirement for manufactured homes, an outdated federal mandate that required manufactured homes to be built on a permanent steel frame. Removing this requirement will help lower costs and allow more design flexibility for prefabricated housing. The legislation also includes important community banking provisions. It allows community banks to hold more custodial and reciprocal deposits without triggering brokered deposit restrictions. It also provides exam relief for banks with up to $6 billion in assets and streamlines the process for new community banks to form. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act also creates a two-year pilot program to support the creation of new community banks, especially in rural areas. ### 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-celebrates-538-million-pilt-funding-being-released-montana-counties Zinke Celebrates $53.8 Million in PILT Funding Being Released for Montana Counties 2026-06-23 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke celebrated the release of $53,889,068 in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for Montana counties, an increase of more than $7.3 million over 2025 disbursements. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a major role in securing these funds. “Public lands are meant to be managed by a multiple-use mandate that allows for public access for recreation, economic development, and conservation. But with years of declining timber sales and economic activity, the counties that host them have been forced to bear the financial burden of management and lost tax revenue,” said Zinke. “Western Montana is nearly 80% federal land. The counties cannot shoulder this burden alone. I fought nonstop to permanently and fully fund PILT and ensure full funding to counties to maintain roads, support law enforcement, fund emergency services, and keep property taxes affordable for local families.” Montana is home to millions of acres of federal land, including national forests, national parks, wildlife refuges, and Bureau of Land Management lands. While these public lands are a cornerstone of Montana's economy and way of life, they reduce the local tax base available to county governments. PILT payments are essential in offsetting the loss of property tax revenue in counties where large portions of land are owned by the federal government and therefore exempt from local taxation. Montana's counties rely on these funds to support essential services such as law enforcement, road maintenance, emergency response, schools, and local infrastructure. The increase in funding comes as many rural Montana counties continue to face rising costs for public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and other essential services. PILT payments provide a reliable source of revenue that helps local governments meet those needs while ensuring the federal government remains a responsible partner to rural communiti… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/montana-seniors-deserve-accountability-medicare-advantage Montana Seniors Deserve Accountability in Medicare Advantage 2026-06-11 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing and Montana State Auditor James Brown penned an opinion piece for the Billings Gazette on protecting Montana seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage. Read it below. Montana Seniors Deserve Accountability in Medicare Advantage Congressman Troy Downing and Montana State Auditor James Brown Billings Gazette June 11, 2026 Medicare Advantage is not just an abstract policy for many Montana seniors who rely on it to access doctors, prescriptions, medical care, and peace of mind. Montanans deserve accountability, not bureaucratic delays, when they have questions about their plan and coverage. States need a stronger role in protecting consumers and enforcing the Medicare Advantage rules already on the books. As it stands, states are largely blocked from independently enforcing federal Medicare Advantage requirements. Even when a plan operates in Montana, serves Montana seniors, and affects Montana families, state officials have limited authority to step in and ensure compliance with existing federal standards. This lacks the common sense Montanans expect from their government. I’m sure many of you recall the television commercials that featured 1970s and 1980s sports and TV personalities like Joe Namath and Jimmie Walker promoting Medicare Advantage plans to seniors, on behalf of lead-generation operations. In some cases, even when a plan lacked an adequate provider network, states had limited authority to enforce the rules or protect seniors from potential bad actors. All of this fell upon the federal government, specifically the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), which has not been sufficiently responsive in addressing this growing problem. State governments are closest to the people impacted by coverage issues. State officials hear directly from consumers, families, providers, and communities when something goes wrong. When distance, rural access, and limited healthcare options already create challenges – seniors deserve responsive oversight that underst… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-2026-great-american-outdoors-act-250 Zinke Introduces 2026 Great American Outdoors Act 250 2026-06-10 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman, former Secretary of the Interior, and key architect of the original Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Ryan Zinke joined House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) in introducing the Great American Outdoors Act 250 (GAOA 250). The legislation reauthorizes and modernizes the Great American Outdoors Act, one of President Trump's signature legislative achievements from his first term, investing $1.9 billion over the next five years to address deferred maintenance across America's national parks and public lands while creating jobs, improving recreational access, and supporting rural gateway communities ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. As the 52nd Secretary of the Interior, Zinke helped construct and champion the original Great American Outdoors Act, which President Trump signed into law in 2020. The landmark legislation established dedicated funding to tackle decades of deferred maintenance across America's public lands and has since delivered billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements nationwide. "The Great American Outdoors Act was one of the crowning achievements of President Trump's first administration and proved that conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand," said Zinke. "As Secretary of the Interior, I worked alongside President Trump to help build the foundation for this historic investment in our parks and public lands. Six years later, we've seen the results. Roads have been rebuilt, trails restored, visitor facilities modernized, and access improved for hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, and families. GAOA 250 builds on that proven success and ensures these investments continue as America celebrates its 250th birthday." Since its enactment, the original Great American Outdoors Act has funded thousands of projects, improvements, and repairs across the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, … 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-led-military-sales-bill-passes-house-bolstering-us-manufacturing-and Zinke-Led Military Sales Bill Passes House, Bolstering U.S. Manufacturing and Global Alliances 2026-06-08 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Ryan Zinke’s Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening American manufacturing by making it easier for allied nations to jointly purchase U.S.-made defense equipment while deepening strategic partnerships abroad. The bill is a continuation of Zinke’s work as Chairman of the Foreign Military Sales Task Force, where he has worked alongside the Department of War to modernize military sales, securing huge wins through legislation and executive order. “America builds the best defense equipment in the world, and our allies need it to safeguard their – and our – people and interests,” said Zinke. “This bill helps cut through the bureaucracy so our partners can work together to buy American-made systems faster and more efficiently. That means stronger and more secure alliances, and more manufacturing jobs here at home.” “Strengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex and dangerous world,” said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. “I’m pleased the House has passed our bipartisan legislation to help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver critical capabilities more efficiently." The bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries with similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for American manufacturers. Under the current system, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to purchase U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can delay orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible and coordinated approach for en… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-announces-house-passage-community-project-funding-montana-public Downing Announces House Passage of Community Project Funding for Montana Public Safety Priorities 2026-06-05 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Troy Downing announced House passage of Community Project Funding for three Montana public safety and emergency response projects in the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Bill. “Montana’s first responders and law enforcement officers deserve the tools, facilities, and resources they need to protect our communities,” said Congressman Downing. “These projects will strengthen emergency response, improve public safety, and support the men and women who serve Stillwater County, McCone County, and surrounding communities every day. I am proud to fight for these investments in rural Montana.” The Community Project Funding secured by Congressman Downing includes: Columbus Fire Rescue, Stillwater County — $2,000,000 This funding supports renovations and modernization of the Columbus Rural Fire District #3 fire station. The project would expand sleeping quarters for resident, paid, and volunteer staff, improve firefighter safety by moving gear out of the apparatus bay and away from exhaust contamination, and renovate a nearby facility into administrative and training space. The upgraded facility would also be available for community use and serve as a backup emergency operations center for the county. McCone County Courthouse Security System — $45,000 This funding supports the installation of security cameras and electronic access controls at the McCone County Courthouse. The system would allow the Sheriff and authorized users to monitor live camera feeds, review recorded footage, and better identify potential or active threats in and around the courthouse. Stillwater County Law Enforcement and Emergency Operations Center — $800,000 This funding supports construction of a new law enforcement, emergency operations, and dispatch center in Stillwater County. The current facility, located in the historic courthouse, no longer meets the needs of the Sheriff’s Office, dispatch staff, or the public. The new facility would include training space, evidence processing and stora… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/175-million-zinkes-infrastructure-requests-and-many-more-montana-priorities $17.5 Million in Zinke’s Infrastructure Requests and Many More Montana Priorities Head to the Floor for a Vote 2026-06-04 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Last night, the FY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and the FY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act passed full committee markup. The bills included $17,500,000 in community project funding requested by Zinke, including continued funding for the Noxon Bridge and Seeley Lake wastewater treatment plant. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Zinke helped craft both bills, which now head to the House floor for a vote. “Montana priorities are front and center in these bills,” said Zinke. “These investments will improve water and wastewater infrastructure, strengthen transportation and public safety, support affordable housing, and deliver real results for rural communities across Montana. The bills also include key provisions to delist recovered grizzly populations, combat drug trafficking in Indian Country, modernize transportation systems, and support working families and seniors. All Montana priorities, and all issues I will be fighting to get in the President’s hands to be signed into law.” See Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding requests included in the bills: FY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Flathead County, $1,000,000 – Lakeside Wastewater System Improvement Project Phase 1 Flathead County, $1,000,000 – Bigfork County Sewer District West Trunk Sewer Project Lake County, $1,500,000 – Charlo Water and Sewer District Wastewater Lagoon Rehabilitation Flathead County, $1,500,000 – Evergreen Flood Resiliency and Groundwater Quality Improvements Missoula County, $1,750,000 – Lolo Wastewater Well Upgrades Phase 2 Granite County, $1,750,000 – Granite County Clean Water Infrastructure Project Phase 2 FY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: Ravalli County $500,000 – Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II Ravalli County, $500,000 – Old Corvallis Road Repair Phase II Missoula County, $1,0… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/montana-ag-priorities-and-over-48-million-zinke-requested-rural-infrastructure Montana Ag Priorities and Over $4.8 Million in Zinke Requested Rural Infrastructure Funding Passes the House in the FY27 Ag Appropriations Bill 2026-06-04 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, the FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Act passed the House of Representatives. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke helped craft the bill, and secured $4.8 million in rural infrastructure funding as well as multiple policy priorities for Montana ag producers. The bill now heads to the Senate for a vote. "I’ve made it a priority to stand up for rural America and the people who keep this country fed,” said Zinke. “The funding in this bill will upgrade basic infrastructure in places like Columbia Falls, Libby, and Ronan and strengthen emergency communications. And I've made sure it cracks down on foreign ownership of American farmland and strengthens food safety protections because food security is national security. Montana Farmers and Ranchers produce a gold star product, and my job is to make sure they have the infrastructure, funding, and administration policy to back them.” Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding requests included in the bill: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, $187,500 – Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Emergency Comms Flathead County, $2,325,000 – City of Columbia Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Phase 1 Lake County, $69,000 - Charlo Volunteer Fire Department Lake County, $259,612 – Lake County Office of Emergency Management Communication Tower Replacements Lincoln County, $1,000,000 – City of Libby Water Filtration Phase 1 Lake County, $1,000,000 – Ronan Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrade Phase 1 Ag priorities included in the bill: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Provides $1.16 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to protect American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases, including High-Path Avian Influenza, New World Screwworm, and other foreign plant and animal threats. This funding supports rapid response capabilities and strengthens protections for American producers and food sup… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-passes-us-house DOWNING BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2026-06-02 2026 2026-06 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Troy Downing’s bill, H.R. 7250, legislation to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028. The bill will help ensure critical water infrastructure projects continue moving forward across northeastern Montana. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves both tribal and non-tribal communities across the region. H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to support construction of essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028. “Access to clean, reliable water is essential for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities in northeastern Montana,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud the House passed my bill to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this critical project moving forward. I urge the Senate to pass this legislation so we can send it to the President’s desk and continue investing in the infrastructure Montanans depend on.” House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised the passage of H.R. 7250 and Congressman Downing’s work to strengthen water infrastructure in northeastern Montana. “Where reliable water flows, opportunity and prosperity follow. H.R. 7250 reauthorizes the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System, helping ensure families, farmers and businesses in northeastern Montana continue to have access to dependable water supplies," said Chairman Westerman. I commend Rep. Downing for his commitment to strengthening critical water infrastructure and supporting Montana’s future.” Read the bill HERE. Background: The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Wa… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-honors-glacier-range-riders-and-brash-rodeo-congressional-records Zinke Honors The Glacier Range Riders and Brash Rodeo with Congressional Records 2026-05-29 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Flathead Valley, MT – Yesterday, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke honored two Flathead Valley institutions, the Brash Rodeo and the Glacier Range Riders, recognizing each organization with a Congressional Record entered into the official record of the United States Congress. The honors celebrated the lasting impact both organizations have had on Montana’s western heritage, local economy, and community traditions. For years, the Brash Rodeo has carried forward Montana’s deep ranching and rodeo traditions, bringing together competitors and spectators from across the region and the world to celebrate the western way of life. Located at Majestic Valley Arena beside the historic Blue Moon Nite Club, the rodeo has become a gathering place for Montanans and visitors alike, showcasing events that reflect the grit and skills of working ranch families across the West. Likewise, the Glacier Range Riders have become a major source of community pride in the Flathead, drawing thousands of fans to professional baseball while supporting local businesses, tourism, and family entertainment throughout the valley. Since their founding in 2021, the Range Riders and Glacier Bank Park have quickly established themselves as cornerstones of summer in Northwest Montana, bringing America’s pastime back to the Flathead and creating a venue where families and neighbors can come together. Congressman Zinke presented the Congressional Records during ceremonies honoring each organization and their contributions to Montana culture and community life. Zinke also threw out the ceremonial first pitch of the Range Riders game. Sections of the Congressional Records and photos are included below. Congressional Record honoring the Glacier Range Riders and photos: “From the name of the team to the stadium, even the logo has a history. The Glacier Range Riders’ logo reflects the rich cultural heritage of Montana and pays homage to the Native American traditions that remain an important part of our state’s identity. The arrowhead design honors… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-andrew-yedinak-may-montana-innovator Downing Honors Andrew Yedinak as May “Montana Innovator” 2026-05-22 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Andrew Yedinak as a “Montana Innovator” for the month of May. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category—May is Public Safety, Justice, and Law Enforcement. Read the full recognition below: This month, I am proud to recognize Supervisory Agent Andrew Yedinak, who has devoted his career to protecting vulnerable individuals and combating some of the most difficult crimes facing our communities. Andrew has served in law enforcement for more than two decades and joined the Montana Department of Justice in 2017. Throughout his career, he has worked in patrol, undercover narcotics operations, SWAT, major case investigations, and internet crimes against children investigations. Today, Andrew leads Montana’s Human Trafficking Unit within the Division of Criminal Investigation, where he works tirelessly to protect victims and bring traffickers to justice. His efforts have helped raise awareness about the realities of human trafficking in Montana and across the country. Through his work with survivors, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations, Andrew has become a leading voice in the fight against exploitation and abuse. In addition to his investigative work, Andrew has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness within law enforcement, encouraging first responders to openly address the trauma and challenges they face in the line of duty. Andrew’s dedication to protecting others and supporting those in need reflects the very best of Montana. It is my honor to recognize Andrew Yedinak this May as an individual who embodies the themes of public safety, justice, and law enforcement in our communities. ### 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-celebrates-relaunch-abmc-flower-program-honoring-fallen-service-members Zinke Celebrates Relaunch of ABMC Flower Program Honoring Fallen Service Members 2026-05-19 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke celebrated the official relaunch of the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) flower program, allowing the families of fallen troops and all Americans to once again send floral arrangements to the graves of American service members buried overseas. The program had been discontinued in 2015, creating significant challenges for Americans seeking to honor fallen loved ones at overseas cemeteries managed by the ABMC. Following bipartisan efforts led by Rep. Zinke and partners in both the House and Senate, the program has now officially resumed after more than 11 years. “This started when a few concerned families of veterans walked into my office asking why Americans could no longer easily honor their fallen heroes overseas,” said Rep. Zinke. “Our servicemen and women made the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom far from home, and they deserve to be remembered and honored by the country they served. I’m proud we were able to work across the aisle to help bring this important program back.” In 2024, Zinke introduced the bipartisan Flowers for Fallen Heroes Act to formally authorize and modernize the flower ordering program. The legislation sought to create a user-friendly website and ordering system allowing Americans to conveniently purchase flowers for gravesites overseas using standard payment methods. The renewed effort received broad bipartisan support in Congress, including companion legislation in the Senate led by Senators Maggie Hassan and Marsha Blackburn. The recently enacted FY2026 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill included language directing the agency to restart the initiative. The relaunched program is now available to the public through the ABMC’s official flower ordering website. To place an order, visit: ABMC Flower Program. ### 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-bill-extend-fort-peck-rural-water-system-authorization-passes-house DOWNING BILL TO EXTEND FORT PECK RURAL WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION PASSES HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE 2026-05-14 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy Downing’s bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System through 2028, allowing critical water infrastructure construction projects to continue moving forward across northeastern Montana. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act of 2000 was originally enacted to provide municipal, rural, and industrial water through two interconnected systems in Montana: the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. The project serves tribal and non-tribal communities across the region. H.R. 7250 extends the Bureau of Reclamation’s authority to support construction on essential water infrastructure projects serving the Fort Peck Reservation and communities in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 through December 2028. “Reliable access to clean water is critical for families, ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities across northeastern Montana,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud my bill, H.R. 7250, passed through the House Natural Resources Committee to extend authorization for the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and keep this important infrastructure project moving forward. This legislation will help strengthen rural communities, support long-term water security, and invest in Montana’s future.” Read the bill HERE. Background: The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was created to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems. H.R. 7250 extends authorization for the project for an additional two years to ensure continued construction and infrastructure development throughout the region. ### 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-introduce-bill-provide-clean-water-eastern-montana Downing, Daines, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Provide Clean Water to Eastern Montana, Authorize Construction of Dry-Redwater Rural Water System 2026-05-13 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to authorize construction of the Dry-Redwater rural water system, helping deliver clean and reliable water to communities across eastern Montana. U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. “Access to clean and reliable water is essential for Montana families, ranchers, farmers, and rural communities. Eastern Montana has dealt with poor water quality for far too long, and this project would deliver the long-term infrastructure needed to support our communities across the region. I’m proud to support this effort to expand access to safe water, strengthen rural development, and invest in the future of eastern Montana,” said Downing. “Montanans shouldn’t have to use dirty water for drinking, eating, cleaning, or other basic necessities. The Dry-Redwater rural water system is a critical project that must be completed as soon as possible, and I’ll work with Senator Sheehy and our colleagues to get this bill across the finish line,” said Daines. “The construction of the Dry-Redwater Rural Water System will be a gamechanger for Eastern Montana, ensuring reliable access to clean water for our rural communities. I’m proud to lead this legislation in the Senate with Senator Daines and will fight alongside our whole delegation to ensure this project gets completed as quickly as possible,” said Sheehy. Read the bill text HERE. Background: The Dry-Redwater rural water system would impact Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, and Richland counties- all areas which have historically suffered from very poor water quality. The system will include a water treatment plan, over 1,300 miles of pipeline, 116 miles of electrical lines, twelve pump stations, and six storage tanks. ### 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-ryan-zinke-announces-more-25-million-airport-infrastructure-grants Congressman Ryan Zinke Announces More Than $25 Million in Airport Infrastructure Grants for Montana 2026-05-12 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, the Office of Congressman Ryan Zinke announces more than $25 million in Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support critical infrastructure upgrades at six Montana airports. These investments will enhance safety, extend the useful life of airport facilities, and improve operations for pilots and passengers across the state. “Infrastructure is a taxpayer investment not merely an expense," said Zinke. "These critical investments will help maintain and improve aging and overlooked infrastructure and ensure the air transportation across our state can keep operating safely and efficiently. As a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation my job is to ensure Montana infrastructure is funded and these projects are worthy of investment.” The funding will support runway, taxiway, apron, lighting, drainage, and access road improvements in Hamilton, Deer Lodge, Missoula, West Yellowstone, Polson, and Bozeman. Grant Details Agency: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Program: Fiscal Year 2026 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Ravalli County Airport (Hamilton, MT) Amount: $218,471 Project: This project reseals approximately 5,200 feet of Runway 16/34 pavement, 14,120 feet of taxiway and taxilane pavement, and 43,193 square yards of apron pavement. These improvements are designed to extend the useful life of existing airfield infrastructure, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and maintain safe operating conditions for general aviation users. Deer Lodge–City-County Airport (Deer Lodge, MT) Amount: $13,477,194 Project: This comprehensive airfield modernization project includes construction of a new 2,840-foot Taxiway A and a new 400-foot Taxilane B to improve airfield access and compliance with current standards. It also includes extension of Runway 13/31 by 1,200 feet, rehabilitation of 5,800 feet of existing runway pavement, reconstruction of runway lighting, and replacement of navigational aids including wind cone, s… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-partners-act-grant-states-enforcement-authority-over DOWNING INTRODUCES PARTNERS ACT TO GRANT STATES ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY OVER MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS 2026-05-11 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Protecting Authority and Restoring Tools Necessary for Enforcement by Regulatory States Act of 2026, or the “PARTNERS Act of 2026,” legislation to grant states the ability to enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage (MA) plan requirements. Under current law, states are largely preempted from independently enforcing standards on Medicare Advantage plans, leaving federal regulators as the sole enforcement authority. The PARTNERS Act would create a parallel state enforcement track allowing states to require MA organizations operating within their borders to comply with existing federal MA requirements. Importantly, the legislation does not create any new standards or mandates for Medicare Advantage plans. Instead, it grants enforcement tools to states and strengthens coordination between federal and state regulators. “States should not be forced to sit on the sidelines when it comes to enforcing standards for Medicare Advantage plans,” said Congressman Downing. “The PARTNERS Act grants commonsense enforcement authority to states while improving coordination with federal regulators, allowing states and CMS to work together through collaborative enforcement agreements. This bill is about accountability, consumer protection, and ensuring the rules already on the books are properly enforced.” The legislation also directs the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate enforcement efforts with states where Medicare Advantage organizations are licensed or operate. Background: Current law preempts states from enforcing their own standards on Medicare Advantage plans, even when those plans are sold and operated within their borders. The PARTNERS Act amends Section 1856(b)(3) of the Social Security Act to clarify that states may independently enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage requirements. The legislation does not establish new Medicare Advantage standards. Instead, it empowers states to enforce the standards already estab… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-accelerating-forest-management-act Downing Introduces the Accelerating Forest Management Act 2026-05-07 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Troy Downing introduced the Accelerating Forest Management Act, legislation to codify the Bureau of Land Management’s proposed National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) categorical exclusion for timber salvage projects in order to speed up active forest management, reduce wildfire risk, and support rural economies. The legislation would permanently authorize streamlined environmental reviews for routine timber salvage projects up to 5,000 acres on BLM lands, helping federal land managers remove dead and dying timber before it fuels catastrophic wildfire. “Montanans know firsthand the devastation catastrophic wildfires can bring to our communities, forests, and economy,” said Congressman Downing. “For too long, burdensome red tape and delayed environmental reviews have prevented timely forest management projects from moving forward. The Accelerating Forest Management Act restores commonsense tools to quickly remove dead and hazardous timber, reduce wildfire fuel loads, and support the rural communities, mills and jobs that rely on healthy forests.” This legislation also includes a 7-year reauthorization of the Forest Ecosystem Health and Recovery Fund, ensuring BLM has the resources needed to effectively respond to wildfires and support proactive forest health and risk reduction activities. Background: In 2024, the Biden administration removed longstanding timber harvest authorities from the Bureau of Land Management, limiting the agency’s ability to efficiently conduct salvage harvesting and thinning projects following severe wildfire seasons across the West. The Bureau of Land Management recently proposed two new categorical exclusions under NEPA to restore and expand streamlined review authorities for routine timber salvage and thinning projects. The proposed exclusions would apply to projects up to 5,000 acres, replacing current limits of 250 acres for salvage projects and 70 acres for thinning projects. Categorical exclusions apply to categories of actions determine… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-allied-defense-sales-act-boost-us-manufacturing-and Zinke Introduces Allied Defense Sales Act to Boost U.S. Manufacturing and Strengthen Alliances 2026-05-04 2026 2026-05 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and Foreign Military Sales Task Force Chairman Ryan Zinke and Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA-06), members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, introduced the Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing by making it easier for allies to jointly purchase American-made defense equipment, while deepening strategic partnerships abroad. The bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries that share similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for U.S. manufacturers. "Our allies should be fighting adversaries, not red tape,” said Zinke. “This bipartisan bill helps keep production lines hot, improves our allies’ ability to work together, and ensures the United States remains the security partner of choice for nations in the fight for freedom.” “Strengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex world,” said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. “This bipartisan legislation will help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver capabilities more efficiently. By encouraging these kinds of ‘group buys,’ we can support smaller partners, bolster our domestic industrial base, strengthen our defense relationships, and better meet shared security challenges around the world.” Under current systems, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to buy U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can slow down orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible, coordinated approach, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, an… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-larry-mayer-april-montana-innovator Downing Honors Larry Mayer as April “Montana Innovator” 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Larry Mayer as a “Montana Innovator” for the month of April. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category—April is news and media. Read Congressman Downing’s Congressional Record submission HERE or below: “In honor of America’s 250th birthday, Montana’s congressional delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation. “This month, I am proud to highlight Montana’s rich communities and the power of visual storytelling by celebrating a dedicated photojournalist who has spent decades documenting the people, places, and events that define the Treasure State: Larry Mayer. “Larry Mayer, a photographer with The Billings Gazette, has worked in photojournalism for nearly 50 years, capturing and preserving the stories of communities across Montana. “Having worked with Larry during my time in Congress and previously as Montana State Auditor, I have come to admire his calm demeanor, kindness, and ability to connect with everyone. “Larry’s commitment to photojournalism drew international attention when he identified the Chinese spy balloon as it crossed over Montana. “Capturing both everyday moments and historic events is part of the very fabric of our state. With Larry Mayer behind the lens, those stories will continue to be told for generations to come. 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/farm-bill-passes-house-zinke-secures-huge-wins-repeal-cottonwood-support Farm Bill Passes House: Zinke Secures Huge Wins to Repeal Cottonwood, Support Farmers & Ranchers, Improve Wildlife Conservation 2026-04-30 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the House passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, commonly known as the Farm Bill. A comprehensive piece of legislation designed to strengthen American agriculture, support rural communities, and improve forest and land management. The bill includes six provisions sponsored or co-sponsored by Zinke, notably codifying a permanent fix to the disastrous Cottonwood Decision that has strangled forest management in Montana for over a decade. “The Farm Bill gives farmers and ranchers the certainty they need to keep doing what they do best and keeps the communities around them strong and stable,” said Zinke. “It preserves food assistance for those who truly need it while cutting waste and fraud and making sure families have access to nutritious food. It supports rural economies, strengthens basic infrastructure so it actually works for the people who live there, and helps folks get access to the health services they rely on without having to leave their towns. It also pushes smarter forest management to reduce wildfire risk and keep our lands healthier for the long haul. At the end of the day, this bill is about keeping American agriculture and small towns strong and built to last.” The Farm Bill, typically reauthorized every five years, has been operating under an extension since 2023. This legislation reauthorizes and modernizes key USDA programs through 2031, providing long-term stability for producers. Key provisions of the Farm Bill include: Expands access to credit and risk management tools for farmers and ranchers facing tough economic conditions Improves SNAP with stronger accountability and a greater focus on healthier outcomes, without increasing federal spending Bolsters support for specialty crop producers and domestic fruit and vegetable production Streamlines conservation programs and strengthens management of working lands and federal forests Enhances export promotion efforts to help address the agricultural trade defi… 1 2026-06-27T21:44:12Z 2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-daines-sheehy-downing-send-letter-bureau-reclamation-requesting-funds Zinke, Daines, Sheehy, Downing Send Letter to Bureau of Reclamation Requesting Funds to Repair St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal 2026-04-28 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressmen Ryan Zinke and Troy Downing (MT-02), as well as U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy today sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation requesting funding to repair the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal. “We write to urge full and fair consideration of the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal of the Milk River Project (Project) in northwestern Montana to be an authorized recipient of funding as appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, titled under “Water Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement.” When the Canal was originally constructed in 1915, it had the capacity to divert up to 850 cubic feet per second (cfs). However, due to its age, capacity has declined to only 600 cfs. This reduction in capacity is leading to a loss of more than 100-million-acre feet that’s flowing across the border into Canada every day… …While two out of the five Drops have been successfully replaced, failure of the remaining three is imminent. As you may know, Drop 5 failed in 2020 and the Siphon failed in 2025, leading to the complete loss of the irrigation season for local and regional producers, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars lost. The failure of any three remaining Drops could once again lead to catastrophic failure and severe economic loss. Funding under “Water Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement” was designated specifically for “construction and associated activities that restore or increase the capacity or use of existing conveyance facilities constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation.” The current fragility of the system speaks to the dire need to restore this key infrastructure to protect our precious water resources,” they wrote in the letter. Read the full letter HERE. ### 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-and-zinke-send-letter-bureau-reclamation-requesting Downing, Daines, Sheehy, and Zinke Send Letter to Bureau of Reclamation Requesting Funds to Repair St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal 2026-04-28 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) and Congressmen Ryan Zinke (MT-01), as well as U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, today sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation encouraging the use of funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to support repairs to the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal. “We write to urge full and fair consideration of the St. Mary Diversion Dam and Canal of the Milk River Project (Project) in northwestern Montana to be an authorized recipient of funding as appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, titled under “Water Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement. ” When the Canal was originally constructed in 1915, it had the capacity to divert up to 850 cubic feet per second (cfs). However, due to its age, capacity has declined to only 600 cfs. This reduction in capacity is leading to a loss of more than 100-million-acre feet that’s flowing across the border into Canada every day… …While two out of the five Drops have been successfully replaced, failure of the remaining three is imminent. As you may know, Drop 5 failed in 2020 and the Siphon failed in 2025, leading to the complete loss of the irrigation season for local and regional producers, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars lost. The failure of any three remaining Drops could once again lead to catastrophic failure and severe economic loss. Funding under “Water Conveyance and Surface Water Storage Enhancement” was designated specifically for “construction and associated activities that restore or increase the capacity or use of existing conveyance facilities constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation.” The current fragility of the system speaks to the dire need to restore this key infrastructure to protect our precious water resources,” they wrote in the letter. Read the full letter HERE. ### 1 2026-06-26T06:29:35Z 2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-downing-daines-sheehy-send-letter-usps-urging-reopening-baker-post ICYMI: Downing, Daines, Sheehy Send Letter to USPS Urging the Reopening of the Baker Post Office 2026-04-20 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), alongside U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT), sent a letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) expressing concerns with the closure of the Baker Post Office and urging the agency to reopen and improve service for constituents. “Nearly a year later, Baker residents are still relying on temporary outdoor distribution units to access their mail. While we appreciate USPS’s efforts to establish interim services in Baker, the current arrangement is not a sustainable solution and falls short of the needs of Montanans, especially as we approach the summer heat and look ahead to another Montana winter. “…Under the current system, residents must retrieve their mail directly from a USPS employee during limited operating hours. The lack of an indoor facility has led to extended wait times with constituents required to stand outside in Montana’s often extreme weather conditions. For working families, seniors, and those with mobility challenges, these conditions present real hardship and raise concerns for their safety. We understand that USPS previously explored options to provide Baker with an indoor unit with P.O. box access ahead of winter, but that this solution was not implemented. Additionally, our offices have not received a defined timeline for completion of repairs to the original building. “…Rural Montanans rely upon the USPS for the timely delivery of essential items, including prescriptions, jury summons, bills, and other correspondence critical to small businesses and keeping families connected. As strong supporters of the USPS, we urge you take immediate steps to improve service conditions and identify options for indoor access. We also request an update on the status of repairs to the Baker facility, a clear timeline for reopening, and interim steps USPS will take to ensure safe and reliable access to mail,” they wrote in the letter. Read the full letter HERE. ### 1 2026-06-24T06:25:30Z 2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/over-10-million-secure-rural-schools-funding-headed-montana-counties Over $10 million in Secure Rural Schools funding headed to Montana counties 2026-04-15 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the U.S. Forest Service announced it will distribute $248 million in Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payments for Fiscal Year 2025, including more than $10 million for Montana’s First Congressional District. The payments support critical infrastructure, rural schools and fund essential local services in communities surrounded by federally managed lands. “Secure Rural Schools is a commitment to communities like ours that live with the reality of federal land ownership every day,” said Zinke. “When Washington controls the land, it has a responsibility to help keep our roads maintained, our schools open, and our first responders supported. Timber communities have been hit especially hard with radical environmental organizations and activist judges stalling timber sales and cutting off reliable sources of revenue. After the lapse in 2023, counties were left in limbo. This funding provides needed relief and restores a measure of certainty.” The announcement follows passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, which Congressman Zinke sponsored to ensure continued payments through FY2026 and restore lapsed funding. Zinke has consistently pushed for long-term certainty for timber-dependent and forested communities, arguing that counties with large amounts of federal land should not be left at a disadvantage. Montana county funding breakdown (MT-01) Beaverhead County — $923,911.02 Deer Lodge County — $178,409.30 Flathead County — $973,971.32 Gallatin County — $188,457.00 Glacier County — $34,690.56 Granite County — $594,901.75 Lake County — $57,833.79 Lincoln County — $3,609,891.82 Madison County — $314,327.84 Mineral County — $857,047.13 Missoula County — $523,289.83 Pondera County — $72,007.32 Powell County — $630,469.84 Ravalli County — $611,524.64 Sanders County — $1,436,653.22 Silver Bow County — $124,603.93 Total (MT-01): $10,131,989.25 Background The Secure Rural Schools program was originally enacted in 2000 to offset declining revenues from timber… 1 2026-06-11T06:38:38Z 2026-06-11T06:41:07Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-nominates-19-western-montana-projects-federal-funding-totaling-over-100 Zinke Nominates 19 Western Montana Projects for Federal Funding Totaling Over 100 Million Dollars 2026-04-06 2026 2026-04 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper *This press release has been edited to reflect the updated funding amount for the Law Enforcement 8 County Memorandum of Understanding. Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that he requested $101,923,449 of federal funding for 19 projects in Western Montana to improve infrastructure, boost affordable housing construction, improve water dependability, disaster preparedness, and law enforcement and first responders’ capabilities. The requests were submitted to the House Appropriations Committee, of which he is a member. The projects would benefit communities in the following counties and tribes: Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Beaverhead, Butte-Silver Bow (2), Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Flathead (4), Gallatin, Glacier, Granite, Lake (5), Lincoln (2), Missoula (2), Pondera, Ravalli (2), Sanders (2). The projects are posted on Congressman Zinke’s website for public inspection here and listed below. “My mission as Representative of Montana’s Western district is to listen to the front lines and make their priorities my priorities,” said Zinke. "These projects come directly from Montana’s county commissioners, sheriffs, fire chiefs, and city officials. They support our law enforcement and first responders, repair aging critical infrastructure, secure water systems, and improve disaster readiness across the region. Working shoulder to shoulder with local leaders, I am putting forward shovel ready projects that meet the real needs of our communities and make disciplined use of taxpayer dollars. This is about telling D.C. what Montana needs, and not the other way around, preserving our Montana way of life, while making sure that our communities have the resources they need to succeed. The submissions were made through the U.S. House of Representatives Community Project Funding program, which allows Congress to direct appropriations from specific grant accounts to eligible projects. All projects must meet the published grant requirements and pass a series of legislative hurdles. E… 1 2026-06-09T06:27:37Z 2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-lesley-robinson-march-montana-innovator Downing Honors Lesley Robinson as March “Montana Innovator” 2026-03-31 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Lesley Robinson as a “Montana Innovator” for the month of March. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category—March is agriculture and food. Read Congressman Downing’s Congressional Record submission here or below: “In honor of America’s 250th birthday, Montana’s Congressional Delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation. “This March, I’m proud to highlight Montana’s rich agricultural history and celebrate an individual who works tirelessly to give a voice to Montana’s ranching families: Lesley Robinson. “Lesley is the Montana Stockgrowers Association’s first woman president, elected in 2024 after having served in leadership since 2000. As the owner and operator of cow-calf operation Lazy JD Cattle Co, she not only advocates for Montana’s stockgrowers, she is one herself. “I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Lesley and MSGA to better understand the needs of the Montanans who bring the quality beef we know and love to market. I can say without a doubt that ranching in the Treasure State has no finer advocate. “It’s no secret that ranching is a part of the very fabric of the Montana way of life. With Lesley Robinson in the fight, it will remain that way for generations to come. “It is my honor to recognize her this March alongside 11 other individuals who represent everything that it means to be a Montanan.” ### 1 2026-06-12T06:37:16Z 2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-native-american-housing-and-self-determination Downing Introduces Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act 2026-03-26 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C.–Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act. This legislation modernizes and reauthorizes NAHASDA, including the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) program, through 2032 to better assist the housing needs of Indian Country by providing targeted regulatory relief. The primary law governing federal support for housing in Indian Country, the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA), has not been updated since 2008. Although Congress continues funding, its programs have not been authorized since 2013. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) are leading substantially similar legislation in the Senate. Representative Janelle Bynum (OR-05) is the House Democrat co-lead. Additional cosponsors of the Native American Housing and Self-Determination Modernization Act include Representatives Tom Cole (OK-04), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) Mike Haridopolos (FL-08), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Andy Barr (KY-06), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Zach Nunn (IA-01), Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Cliff Bentz (OR-02) Gwen Moore (WI-04), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Angie Craig (MN-02), Don Davis (NC-01), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), William Keating (MA-09), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03). Supporting organizations include the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Assistance Council, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), National NeighborWorks Association, N… 1 2026-06-06T06:16:30Z 2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-111-million-federal-funding-water Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $11.1 Million in Federal Funding for Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement in Gallatin, Beaverhead, and Missoula Counties 2026-03-13 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper SEELEY LAKE, MT – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Bozeman and Seeley Lake to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $11.1 million in federal funding for critical water infrastructure and law enforcement projects in Missoula, Gallatin, and Beaverhead Counties. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process. “Clean water and strong law enforcement, these investments are about keeping our communities safe, healthy, and prepared for the future,” said Rep. Zinke. “Upgrading water systems in Seeley Lake is essential to solving the affordable housing problem that caused the closure of Pyramid Lumber two years ago. And both Beaverhead and Gallatin County are dealing with rapid growth and the increase in need for law enforcement presence that comes with it. Providing new technology and vehicles for our sheriffs and police officers ensures that western Montana families and businesses have the public safety resources they need. I thank the local leaders and community members who worked with my office to secure this funding and make these projects a reality.” The day began in Bozeman, where Zinke delivered $907,000 to the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office for the purchase of Rapid DNA technology and new patrol vehicles for the Belgrade City Police. He also presented $200,000 to the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Department for new police vehicles. “We work hard to build relationships with our federal, state and local partners,” said Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer. “The Rapid DNA analysis equipment will benefit the entire region in locating unknown suspects who commit felony crimes. If we can compress the timeframe from collecting evidence to identifying a suspect it allows our investigators more of an opportunity to catch up to the criminal before they commit another crime or destroy evidence. If a suspect’s DNA is already in the system, we will be able to match evidence found at a scene to that individual within 90 mi… 1 2026-06-05T06:35:23Z 2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-23-million-federal-funding-public-safety-and Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $2.3 Million in Federal Funding for Public Safety and Water Infrastructure in Powell and Granite Counties 2026-03-12 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper DEER LODGE, MT – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Philipsburg and Deer Lodge to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating the more than $2.3 million in federal funding for public safety and water infrastructure projects in Granite and Powell counties. The funding is part of the more than $35 million he secured for Montana communities in fiscal year 2026 through the appropriations process. “In Montana everyone has a duty, and my job is to make sure our county officials and volunteer first responders have the tools to do theirs,” said Rep. Zinke. “In Powell County that means making sure volunteer fire departments serving some of the most remote terrain in the state have the equipment they need to respond quickly to accidents, emergencies, and search and rescue operations. In Philipsburg, it means upgrading an aging water transmission line so residents and businesses can rely on safe, dependable water. Thank you to all the local officials and community leaders who worked with my office to bring these projects forward and get them across the finish line.” The day began in Philipsburg, where Zinke delivered $1,750,000 for upgrades to Philipsburg's water transmission line. The project will improve the reliability of the town’s water system and help ensure residents and businesses have dependable access to clean water. “Updating Philipsburg’s aging water system is long overdue, and this investment is a big first step,” said Philipsburg Mayor Anne Fillmore. “Our transmission line has served the community for decades, but it’s time to modernize the system to ensure residents and businesses continue to have reliable access to safe, clean water. We appreciate Congressman Zinke working with our town to help move this important project forward.” Congressman Zinke then traveled to Deer Lodge, where he delivered $554,969 to Powell County for equipment for volunteer fire departments. The funding will allow the rural volunteer fire department to purchase new equipment to handle the immense acreage under t… 1 2026-06-05T06:35:23Z 2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-59-million-federal-funding-infrastructure-law Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $5.9 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure, Law Enforcement, and First Responders in Ravalli, Mineral, and Lake Counties 2026-03-11 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper HAMILTON, MT – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled to Ronan, Superior, and Hamilton to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $5.9 million in federal funding for critical infrastructure and public safety projects. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process. “Montana communities thrive when our infrastructure is strong and our first responders are ready for anything,” said Rep. Zinke. “Upgrades to wastewater systems in Ravalli County will protect our rivers and keep towns healthy. Firefighters and law enforcement in Lake and Mineral County are receiving the equipment they need to keep families safe. My goal is to make sure the front lines have the recourses they need to do the job, and these investments accomplish that goal.” The day started in Ronan, where Zinke delivered $547,500 to the Ronan Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new Type 1 fire truck and $200,000 for Lake County’s Law Enforcement Resiliency Project, which will help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for Lake County law enforcement. “Volunteer firefighters are often the first to respond when our community needs help, and having reliable equipment can make all the difference,” said Ronan Mayor and Lieutenant Volunteer Firefighter Ryan Corum. “This new Type 1 fire truck will strengthen our ability to respond to fires and emergencies across the Ronan area. We appreciate Congressman Zinke’s support for rural fire departments and his recognition of the important role volunteers play in keeping our communities safe.” Zinke then traveled to Superior to drop of a $725,000 check for law enforcement upgrades and patrol vehicles for Mineral County. “Ryan Zinke’s office has demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a clear commitment to supporting rural communities,” said Mineral County Sherrif Ryan Funke. “Their dedication to ensuring small counties are not overlooked was evident through the appropriation grant awarded to the Mineral County… 1 2026-06-05T06:35:23Z 2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-zinke-delivers-over-143-million-federal-funding-infrastructure-and Congressman Zinke Delivers Over $14.3 Million in Federal Funding for Infrastructure and Public Safety Projects Across Flathead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties 2026-03-09 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper NORTHWEST MONTANA – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke traveled across northwest Montana to deliver ceremonial checks celebrating more than $14.3 million in federal funding he secured for infrastructure, transportation, and public safety projects across Flathead, Sanders, and Lincoln counties. The funding is part of the over $35 million he secured in fiscal year 2026 as a part of the appropriations process. “States like Montana have been overlooked for too long, our infrastructure is aging and our law enforcement is underequipped for the massive acreage they cover. Replacing aging bridges, upgrading rural roads, and making sure our sheriffs and deputies have the gear they need protects families, supports local economies, and keeps Montana moving,” said Congressman Zinke. “These projects were a team effort, from Sander County Commissioner Tony Cox calling me and my office near every day to the hard work of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s office, we made sure this funding went to the priorities of the communities that need them most." The day began in the Flathead, where Zinke delivered $1,000,000 for the installation of guardrails along North Fork Road in Flathead County. The project is in conjunction with the Flathead County Roads Department’s planned repaving of the corridor. “Projects like this happen when local leaders and our federal delegation work together toward a shared goal,” said Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell. “Replacing these guardrails might seem like a small detail, but along a road like the North Fork, it can make a real difference in protecting the people who travel it every day.” Zinke then traveled to Noxon, where he delivered $10,000,000 in funding for Phase 1 of the Noxon Bridge Replacement project. He also presented $965,000 for the Sanders County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project to help purchase new police vehicles and equipment for the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office, and $1,150,000 to repave Marten Creek Road. “Sanders County thanks Congressman Ryan Zinke for securi… 1 2026-05-20T06:27:31Z 2026-05-20T06:28:54Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-appointed-house-committee-natural-resources Downing Appointed to House Committee on Natural Resources 2026-03-06 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following his appointment to the House Committee on Natural Resources. “Montana is defined by its wealth of natural resources,” said Congressman Downing. “The laws and regulations impacting these resources have direct implications for the people I represent, and I could not be more excited to have a seat at the table that oversees energy production, mining, public lands, irrigation, and our tribal communities as the newest member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. I look forward to working with Chairman Westerman and my committee colleagues to advance sound policy and thank the House steering committee for this opportunity to represent the interests of central and eastern Montana.” “I’m excited to welcome Representative Downing to the House Committee on Natural Resources,” said Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04). “Montana is blessed with vast natural resources, and Representative Downing will be a key ally in unleashing American energy dominance to lower costs for American families and conserving our public lands.” Background Downing represents central and eastern Montana, home to some of the largest concentrations of natural resources in the country including the nation’s biggest coal deposit (Powder River Basin) and only Platinum and Palladium Mine (Stillwater Mine). Before being elected to Congress, Downing served as Montana State Auditor where he sat on the Board of Land Commissioners, consisting of the state's five highest elected officials. Notable natural resources legislation championed by Congressman Downing include the Pet and Livestock Protection Act, ESA Amendments Act, Crowe Revenue Act, COAL POWER Act, Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act, and H.J. Res. 104 among others. Downing is a member of the Congressional Western Caucus, Public Lands Caucus, and House Financial Services Committee. ### 1 2026-06-03T06:40:39Z 2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-tokuda-launch-congressional-air-medical-caucus Zinke, Tokuda Launch Congressional Air Medical Caucus 2026-03-03 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-MT-01) and Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02) formally launched the bipartisan Congressional Air Medical Caucus during an official kick-off event at the Cannon House Office Building, bringing together Members of Congress, industry leaders, and medical professionals to elevate awareness of the essential role air medical services play in America’s emergency care system. View photos from the event here. The caucus will educate lawmakers on the operational, clinical, and policy framework that sustains air medical services nationwide. Air ambulances serve as fully equipped mobile intensive care units, transporting critically ill and injured patients from accident scenes and rural hospitals to trauma centers, stroke centers, burn units, and other specialty facilities. In many rural and geographically isolated areas, air medical transport is the only viable option for timely access to advanced care. For states like Montana and Hawaiʻi, where patients can be separated from specialty care by hundreds of miles of terrain or open ocean, air medical services are a core component of healthcare infrastructure. Nationally, air ambulance providers operate hundreds of bases and respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, supporting disaster response, interfacility transfers, and lifesaving trauma missions. The Congressional Air Medical Caucus will focus on promoting patient access, advancing safety and clinical excellence, supporting the highly trained workforce required for round-the-clock readiness, and ensuring federal policies reflect the operational realities of air medical providers. The caucus has bipartisan and bicameral support and is endorsed by the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). “Air medical transport is often the difference between life and death in rural America,” said Rep. Zinke. “In a state like Montana, where distance and weather are constant challenges, we depend on these crews to deliver critical care when every second counts. Working wit… 1 2026-05-13T06:12:22Z 2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-statement-zinke-retirement Downing Statement on Zinke Retirement 2026-03-02 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following Congressman Ryan Zinke’s retirement. “For over 30 years, Commander Zinke has served his country with integrity, responsibility, and honor,” said Congressman Downing. “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve alongside Ryan while fighting for Montanans in Washington—from protecting our public lands to supporting our farmers and ranchers. Time and again, he has gone to bat for the Treasure State, always putting Montana first. “As he and Lola begin their next chapter, Heather and I wish them nothing but the very best. Our state is stronger because of his leadership and service. Montanans will miss having such a steadfast warrior on their team. Thank you for your service, Commander.” ### 1 2026-05-15T06:17:41Z 2026-05-15T06:18:51Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/after-30-years-public-service-congressman-ryan-zinke-mt-01-announces-he-will After 30+ Years of Public Service, Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) Announces He Will Not Seek Reelection in November 2026-03-02 2026 2026-03 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Whitefish, MT - Today, after more than 30 years in public service and four terms in Congress, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) announced he will not seek reelection in November. His career includes serving 23 years as a U.S. Navy SEAL officer (1985-2008), four years in the Montana State Senate (2009-2013), two years as Secretary of the Interior under President Donald J. Trump (2017-2019), and four noncontiguous terms in Congress (2015-2017; 2023-2026). Zinke penned a letter to the people of Montana which can be read here. The following statement can be attributed to Congressman Zinke: “It has been my highest honor to serve America and the Great State of Montana as a U.S. Navy SEAL Commander, State Senator, Congressman, and the 52nd Secretary of the Interior. It has been my privilege to fight on the front lines defending freedom, faith, family, and the values that make America and Montana strong. Battles are not fought alone, and with your support we have unleashed America’s energy potential, removed excessive regulation, lowered taxes, passed the Great American Outdoors Act to repair and preserve our National Parks and Forests, and saved our treasured public lands from being sold to the highest bidder. “We have also secured critical funding for Montana bridges, roads, sewer systems, water infrastructure, public access points, conservation projects, and helped thousands of Montanans successfully navigate through the federal bureaucracy to solve real problems that matter to the people that I am honored to represent. Service is a duty that I will always hold sacred, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. “As for my service and duty going forward, I have made the decision to leave office at the end of my fourth term and not seek re-election. I do not take this decision lightly and have informed President Trump, the Governor, and senior leadership of this difficult but necessary decision. “While my belief in term limits for elected office is a consideration, I have quietly unde… 1 2026-05-06T06:05:57Z 2026-05-06T06:07:49Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-baron-stroop-february-montana-innovator Downing Honors Baron Stroop as February “Montana Innovator” 2026-02-27 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized Baron Stroop as a “Montana Innovator” for the month of February. This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category—February is mining. Read Congressman Downing’s Congressional Record submission below: “In honor of America’s 250th birthday, Montana’s Congressional Delegation is recognizing exceptional individuals who embody the spirit of our great state and nation. “This February, I’m proud to highlight Montana’s rich mining history and recognize a man who devoted his life to its preservation: Baron Stroop. “Baron worked as a drag line operator at Rosebud Mine in Colstrip, Montana. In a job that demanded grit, skill, and long hours, Baron showed up every day with a relentless work ethic and a great pride in producing the energy that powers our communities. “Last year, we lost Baron far too soon. He represented the backbone of eastern Montana–hardworking, dependable, and humble–and lived his life with the same sense of freedom and strength that defines the Treasure State. “Baron leaves behind three daughters, including Zoey, who serves on my team as a field representative in our Billings office. “His legacy lives on not only through his family but in the example he set. He worked hard, loved deeply, and served his community fiercely. “It is my honor to recognize his life and count him among 11 other individuals who represent everything that it means to be a Montanan.” ### 1 2026-05-14T06:11:37Z 2026-05-14T06:12:56Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/interior-secretary-doug-burgum-congressman-ryan-zinke-visit-montana-tech-dig Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Congressman Ryan Zinke visit Montana Tech, dig into the future of critical minerals in Montana 2026-02-27 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper BUTTE, MT – Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke visited Montana Tech University in Butte, MT, to tour the Lance College of Mines and Engineering advanced mineral labs, receive a briefing on the latest engineering technology the school has developed, and host a roundtable discussion with local stakeholders on the Trump Administration’s commitment to bringing mining jobs back to Montana. Photos of the event for media use can be downloaded here. “President Trump and Secretary Burgum have been in lock step with the entire Montana delegation fighting for Montana mining jobs against corrupt foreign influence and manipulation,” said Congressman Zinke. “On behalf of the Governor, Senators and Montana miners I thank the administration for implementing a 132% tariff on Russian mineral imports which will bring good paying jobs back to Montana. In Montana, we know better than anyone that there’s appropriate places to mine and not, the men and women mining the Stillwater, Silver Bow and other Montana mines do it right. They use the highest technology, have a strong reclamation and safety plan, and they hire brilliant Montana Tech grads. We need to be doing more mining in Montana, not less." "Montana stands at the forefront of America's mining future, and today's visit underlines the Trump administration, Congressman Zinke and the entire Montana delegation's commitment to restoring American Mineral Dominance and advancing a bold, pro-worker agenda across the West," said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. "After years of burdensome restrictions under the Biden administration, that locked up our energy and mineral supply and drove up costs, President Donald J. Trump has launched a decisive resurgence in American energy and mining that is making life more affordable for Montana families - beginning with unleashing our vast domestic resources. At Interior, we will continue working hand-in-hand with our partners in Western states to restore America’s mining legacy by cutting re… 1 2026-05-01T06:06:26Z 2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-releases-statement-following-state-union-address Downing Releases Statement Following State of the Union Address 2026-02-24 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. “President Trump has accomplished more in one year than the previous administration could in four,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud to have worked alongside him with my Republican colleagues to deliver historic tax relief for families, workers, and businesses, secure our border, beat back inflation, and make everyday life more affordable for central and eastern Montanans. Here’s to three more years of the Golden Age.” ### 1 2026-05-12T06:07:57Z 2026-05-12T06:09:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-releases-statement-following-state-union-address Zinke Releases Statement Following the State of the Union Address 2026-02-24 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke released the following statement following the State of the Union Address: “Damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead with the Trump America First Agenda. After years of rising prices and stagnant wages, the economy is moving forward. Inflation is down 2 percent, GDP is up 5 percent, retirement accounts are growing, and American families are keeping more of their hard-earned paychecks. Gas prices dropped to $2.25 a gallon in Montana. The border is secure after years of chaos, with law enforcement empowered to do their jobs and keep our communities safe. The Trump doctrine is in full effect, our enemies once again fear us, and our allies understand we all must bear the burden in the fight for freedom. In just one year, President Donald Trump and the Republican Congress have restored energy independence, strengthened our military, secured our borders, and put more money back in your pocket. Tonight, POTUS laid out why America is back, and we are just getting started.” ### 1 2026-04-29T06:03:53Z 2026-04-29T06:05:09Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-reversal-mats-rule Downing Applauds Reversal of MATS Rule 2026-02-20 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to reverse the Biden Administration’s 2024 amendments to the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units (EGUs)–a rule commonly known as the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS). “For too long, the Biden-era MATS rule has strangled American coal-fired energy,” said Congressman Downing. “I applaud President Trump and his administration for taking decisive action to rescind this rule that places unfair constraints on coal plants like Colstrip in Rosebud County, threatening American energy independence and grid reliability. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to swiftly take up my COAL POWER Act to codify this move so that it cannot be revived by a subsequent administration.” Background: On May 7, 2024, the Biden EPA finalized the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), specifically targeting coal-fired power plants like Colstrip and mandating compliance using emissions-control technologies that are not yet commercially viable. The short compliance timeline and high implementation costs would force Colstrip to shut down, creating reliability concerns for Montana’s grid. On April 8, President Trump issued an Executive Proclamation exempting Colstrip and other coal plants from the rule until 2029. On June 10, Congressman Downing introduced the COAL POWER Act which rolls back the 2024 MATS rule to the standard under the first Trump Administration and states that the 2024 rule shall have no force or effect. Read text of the COAL POWER Acthere. ### 1 2026-05-08T05:46:43Z 2026-05-08T05:48:09Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-preliminary-affirmative-determination-russian-dumping Downing Applauds Preliminary Affirmative Determination in Russian Dumping Investigation 2026-02-12 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following the U.S. Department of Commerce’s (Commerce) announcement of its preliminary affirmative determination in the antidumping duty (AD) investigation of unwrought palladium from the Russian Federation (Russia) brought by Stillwater Mining Company. “This preliminary determination confirms what Montanans have known all along–Russian commodity dumping is to blame for the market turmoil that has left 700 families reeling from layoffs at Stillwater Mine,” said Congressman Downing. “I was proud to advocate for tariffs on Russian critical mineral imports and urge the Department of Commerce to use the tools at its disposal to combat this manipulation accordingly. In the meantime, I will continue fighting for relief for the people of Stillwater County by working to pass my Stop Russian Market Manipulation Act.” Background On August 21, 2025, Congressman Downing joined the entire Montana congressional delegation in a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately assess a 50% tariff on critical mineral imports from Russia. On February 27, 2025, Congressman Downing introduced the Stop Russian Market Manipulation Act which would ban critical mineral imports from Russia and provide much needed relief for families affected by layoffs at Stillwater Mine. ### 1 2026-05-01T06:06:26Z 2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-testifies-support-bill-strengthen-irrigation-protect-montana Downing Testifies in Support of Bill to Strengthen Irrigation, Protect Montana Endangered Species 2026-02-04 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) delivered testimony before the House Committee on Natural Resources in support of his bill, H.R. 6568, the Lower Yellowstone River Native Fish Conservation Act. The bill reaffirms that the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) retains exclusive ownership, operational control, and financial responsibility for the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel built to support the recovery of the endangered pallid sturgeon. Read bill text of H.R. 6568 here. Image Watch Congressman Downing’s remarks in support of H.R. 6568 here or by clicking on the image above. Background Authorized in 2007 and built by Bureau of Reclamation, the Lower Yellowstone fish bypass channel mitigates harm to the endangered pallid sturgeon and lies outside the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project. In the winter, large pieces of ice crash into these bypasses causing extensive damage. While LYIP repays irrigation infrastructure costs, the bypass's repair needs stem from federal obligations, and LYIP believes they should not—and cannot afford to—reimburse BOR for repair and maintenance costs. ### 1 2026-04-29T06:03:53Z 2026-04-29T06:05:09Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinkes-requests-over-27-million-western-montana-roads-bridges-and-water Zinke’s Requests for Over $27 Million in Western Montana Roads, Bridges, and Water Infrastructure Projects Signed into Law 2026-02-03 2026 2026-02 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Bringing home the bacon! Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that President Trump has signed the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriation Bill into law. The legislation includes more than $27 million in funding for bridges, roads, and water infrastructure projects that will go directly to six Western Montana counties. As a member of the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a central role in shaping the final bill to ensure rural Montana infrastructure needs were prioritized. With the enactment of H.R. 7148, which includes funding for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Financial Services and General Government, National Security, the Department of State, and Related Programs, 11 of the 12 Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills have now been signed into law and the partial government shutdown has ended. "For years, rural Montana has sent its tax dollars to Washington and watched our critical infrastructure projects get pushed aside while places like Baltimore, Seattle, and Chicago got funding," said Zinke. "This funding corrects that. It puts money back into communities that depend on one bridge, one road, or one water treatment plant to function. These projects came directly from local leaders and county commissioners who live with the consequences of federal neglect. That local input matters more than guidance written by bureaucrats who have never set foot in Western Montana.” Zinke's Community Project Funding Requests: $10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant $10,000,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement, Phase I $2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant $454,000 for Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion $1,150,000 for Repaving Marten Creek Road $1,000,000 for the Flathead County North Fork Road Guardrails $1,000,000 for the Groff Lan… 1 2026-04-16T05:48:36Z 2026-04-16T05:50:08Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-honors-montana-rodeo-legend-flint-rasmussen-montana-innovator Downing Honors Montana Rodeo Legend Flint Rasmussen as “Montana Innovator” 2026-01-30 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) recognized rodeo legend Flint Rasmussen as a “Montana Innovator.” This initiative, conducted in conjunction with the Montana 250th Commission, features monthly spotlights on Montanans of note ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each month centers on a different theme or category—January is health, wellness, and sports. Read Congressman Downing’s Congressional Record submission hereor below: “Mr. Speaker, in honor of America's 250th birthday, Members of Congress from the Treasure State are highlighting exceptional Montanans each month who embody the spirit of our great state and Nation. Last year, rodeo was officially recognized as Montana's state sport. It's only fitting that the first Montanan I honor is Havre native Flint Rasmussen. For decades, Flint brought laughter, heart, and unforgettable energy to rodeo arenas across Montana and the country. His natural talent, quick wit, and unmistakable flair captivated audiences wherever he performed. Making his PBR World Finals debut in 1997, Flint became the dedicated, exclusive in-arena entertainer for PBR's premier tour in 2006. For more than two decades, fans packed arenas not only to watch world-class bull riding, but to be entertained by Flint's iconic performances that became a hallmark of PBR events. In recognition of his remarkable career, Flint was inducted into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2024 and the Bull Riding Hall of Fame last year. Flint Rasmussen didn't just shape Montana's rodeo culture, he helped define rodeo entertainment across America. I thank Flint for his innumerable contributions to the fabric of American culture through his life's work. He has made our state and our country proud.” ### 1 2026-04-21T05:46:59Z 2026-04-21T05:48:34Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-honors-montana-world-war-ii-home-front-pioneer-donna-roberts Zinke Honors Montana World War II Home Front Pioneer Donna Roberts in Congressional Record 2026-01-30 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Each month of 2026, the 250th year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke will join the rest of the Montana delegation and the Montana 250th Commission in honoring individuals who have made their mark as extraordinary Montanans. This January, Congressman Zinke is recognizing Donna Stageman Roberts of Swan Lake, Montana, in the Congressional Record for her role on the World War II home front and her lifelong contributions to Montana’s communities. Donna Roberts recently celebrated her 100th birthday and is the only Montanan to have played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, a professional league formed during World War II to sustain America’s pastime while Major League Baseball players served overseas. Her story reflects the resilience, adaptability, and service that defined the American home front during a time of global conflict. Read Congressman Zinke’s Congressional Record submission below: Mr. Speaker, as our Nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, I rise to recognize a remarkable Montanan whose life story reflects both the resilience of this Nation during World War II and the enduring spirit of service that defines the Treasure State. Today I honor Donna Stageman Roberts, born January 1, 1926, in Randolph, Nebraska, and now a resident of Swan Lake, Montana. On New Year’s Day, Donna celebrated her 100th birthday, a milestone befitting a life that spans a century of change and achievement. Donna’s life is interwoven with one of the most extraordinary chapters in American sports history and our home front effort during World War II. In 1946, at the age of 20 and living in Billings, she read about tryouts for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, a professional league created in 1943 to sustain America’s pastime while many major league players served overseas during the war. After submitting her application and being selected from hundreds of hopefuls, Donna earned a contract wit… 1 2026-04-07T05:38:05Z 2026-04-07T05:39:14Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-legislation-bolster-water-infrastructure-fort-peck Downing Introduces Legislation to Bolster Water Infrastructure on the Fort Peck Reservation 2026-01-27 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced a bill to reauthorize the Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System Act of 2000. “Water infrastructure is vital to ensuring Montana’s tribal communities have the resources they need to thrive,” said Congressman Downing. “I’m proud to lead this bill in the House and work alongside Senators Daines and Sheehy to deliver for Indian Country.” Read text of the bill here. Background The Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System Act of 2000 was first enacted to allow for joint management of two interconnected water systems—the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System and the Dry Prairie Water System. Congressman Downing’s bill would permit the Bureau of Reclamation to continue constructing and maintaining essential water infrastructure on the Fort Peck Reservation from December 2026 to December 2028. Senators Daines and Sheehy introduced companion legislation earlier this month. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinkes-requests-over-8-million-western-montana-water-infrastructure-and-law Zinke’s Requests for Over $8 Million in Western Montana Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement Projects Signed into Law 2026-01-23 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that President Trump has signed into law H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. This legislation includes more than $8 million in federal funding for five key Community Funding Projects across Montana, supporting essential water infrastructure improvements and bolstering law enforcement resources in Western Montana counties. “These projects come directly from county commissioners and sheriffs who are on the front lines of their communities every day,” said Zinke. “They know what needs to be done to improve public safety and infrastructure, and these projects will make a real difference for the communities they serve. This is exactly the kind of funding federal dollars were designed for, investments that have an immediate, positive impact where people live and work.” The funding will go directly to law enforcement agencies in Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, Sanders, and Gallatin Counties, and water infrastructure projects in Missoula, Mineral, and Granite Counties. This package also includes additional priorities Congressman Zinke secured as a senior member of both the Appropriations Committee and the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee. These investments and policies address Montana’s critical needs, including public safety, water infrastructure, tribal education, the Murder and Missing Indigenous Women program, and protecting Second Amendment rights. Zinke’s requested Western Montana Community Funding Projects signed into law: $1.75 million for the Philipsburg Water Transmission Line Upgrade $1.75 million for Missoula County Water Well Upgrades $1 million for the Alberton Water Storage Project $2.89 million for the Five-County Law Enforcement Resiliency Project supporting sheriffs in Mineral, Lake, Beaverhead, Lincoln, and Sanders Counties for bulk vehicle and equipment purchases $907,000 for the Gallatin County Sheriff’s… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-passage-funding-montana-infrastructure-sentinel-program Downing Applauds Passage of Funding for Montana Infrastructure, Sentinel Program 2026-01-22 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following House passage of H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. H.R. 7148 includes the last of 12 appropriations bills passed by the U.S. House of Representatives for fiscal year 2026 (FY26), marking a return to regular order appropriations. The legislation includes $9,288,000 in funding for local priorities across Yellowstone, Rosebud, Teton, and Cascade counties which can be referenced in Division D of the bill’s Joint Explanatory Statement. Funded projects include improving a storm runoff pond at Billings Logan International Airport, roadway extension in Cascade County, road paving in Rosebud County, and a project to automate canal gates in the Greenfields Irrigation District. The bill also includes over $2.6 billion to fund the Sentinel Program which can be referenced in Division A of the bill’s Joint Explanatory Statement. This funding level matches President Trump’s FY26 budget request for discretionary appropriations for the program by supplementing $2.5 billion appropriated in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act for risk reduction activities for the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program. Passage of H.R. 7148 is a critical step in securing funding for the projects. Following approval by the full House of Representatives, the legislation must be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the President. This is the first time in years that a Congressman from Montana’s Eastern District has advocated for community project funding. "The days of Congress kicking the can down the road are over,” said Congressman Troy Downing. “Today, House Republicans passed the last of 12 appropriations bills, delivering on our promise to return to regular order. This legislation also reflected my advocacy for infrastructure development in Central and Eastern Montana and full funding for the Sentinel Program at Malmstrom Air Force Base. I was proud to support these initiatives and urge the Senate to take up this bill as soon as possible… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-secures-over-27-million-western-montana-roads-bridges-and-infrastructure Zinke Secures Over $27 Million for Western Montana Roads, Bridges, and Infrastructure Projects in the Final FY26 Appropriations Package 2026-01-22 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced that he secured over $27 million in infrastructure funding for Montana in H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. The package includes the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education appropriations bills. As a member of House Appropriations Committee and of the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a large part in crafting this package. With House passage of this legislation package as well as of H.R. 7147 Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2026 today, all 12 FY26 appropriations bills have now passed the House of Representatives. Five bills have passed the Senate, while three have already been signed into law, marking significant progress toward completing the federal funding process through regular order. This would be only the fourth time Congress has passed all 12 appropriations bills through regular order since the current budget rules took effect in 1977, and the first time since 1997. “I’ve worked with county commissioners and local leaders for years on these projects, and now we’re finally securing the support they deserve,” said Zinke. “This bill funds vital projects that Washington often overlooks but are essential to the people who live there. Seely Lake’s wastewater treatment plant, replacement of the Noxon Bridge, road improvements in Ravalli County, and guardrail installations along the North Fork are prime examples of what Congress should be spending money on. These are good, community driven, shovel ready projects, that come from the ground up, not from bureaucrats who’ve never been to the west. I urge the Senate to act quickly and pass this bill, fully funding the government for fiscal year 2026.” Zinke’s Community Project Funding Requests: $10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant $10,000,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement, Phase I $2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wa… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downings-ai-wise-act-passes-house Downing’s AI-WISE Act Passes House 2026-01-20 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing’s (MT-02) H.R. 5784, the AI-WISE Act, passed out of the House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bill, sponsored by Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), now awaits consideration in the Senate, taking a critical step toward becoming law. “The small businesses in rural communities that I represent often lack the resources and information needed to facilitate technology adoption,” said Congressman Downing. “My AI-WISE Act will help Main Street Montana stay competitive and thrive in the AI era. I’m proud to be leading this legislation with Congresswoman Scholten and urge the Senate to take it up immediately.” Read bill text of H.R. 5784 here. Image Click here or on the image above to watch Congressman Downing’s remarks in support of H.R. 5784. H.R. 5784 received the following statements of support from OpenAI and Intuit: OpenAI “OpenAI also strongly supports H.R. 5784, the Artificial Intelligence Wisdom for Innovative Small Enterprises (AI WISE) Act. This bill would require the Small Business Administration to develop and maintain clear educational resources and online learning modules that explain how AI tools work, their limitations and risks, how to identify AI-generated outputs, and how to stay current as this technology rapidly evolves. We are encouraged that the bill directs SBA to consult with NIST and an expert advisory working group, to engage resource partners such as SBDCs and Women’s Business Centers, and to ensure that materials are actionable, accessible, and model neutral rather than favoring any one AI provider. We thank Representatives Troy Downing and Hillary Scholten for recognizing that improving AI literacy is essential if small businesses are to harness AI’s benefits while avoiding its pitfalls.” Intuit “We write today to express our support of H.R. 5784, the Artificial Intelligence Wisdom for Innovative Small Enterprises Act or the ‘AI-WISE Act’. “Intuit's mission is to power prosperity around the world and we believe that artificial int… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-introduces-mccarran-ferguson-restoration-act Downing Introduces McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act 2026-01-16 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) introduced the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act. This legislation will eliminate the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), create a United States Insurance Representative appointed by the Treasury Secretary, and expand state insurance representation on the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) by elevating the current nonvoting state insurance commissioner to a voting member. In early 2025, Congressman Downing introduced the Federal Insurance Office Elimination Act, which eliminated the office and all of its features in their entirety. The McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act reflects substantial industry feedback to preserve key functions of the office like the facilitation of U.S. representation on the international stage and inclusion in FSOC. Original cosponsors of the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act include Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) and Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05). Supporting organizations include the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”), the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Read exclusive reporting on the McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act in CQ News here. “The Federal Insurance Office exists in spite of the fact that the regulation of insurance has and always will belong to the states,” said Congressman Downing. “FIO is a duplicative federal bureaucracy that hinders the efforts of state regulators better equipped to address the insurance needs of their communities. The McCarran-Ferguson Restoration Act affirms this by eliminating the Federal Insurance Office while preserving some of its key features, delivering greater clarity for U.S. insurance regulation.” “The consensus is clear: regulatory authority over insurance should be left to the states,” said Jimi Grande, NAMIC SVP of Federal & Political Affairs. "Rather than infor… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-historic-233-million-investment-rural-health-care-headed-montana ICYMI: Historic $233 Million Investment in Rural Health Care Headed to Montana 2026-01-12 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - In December, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced that Montana will receive more than $233 million in Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation Program. This funding is part of the landmark “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which Congressman Zinke supported and was signed into law in July. It represents the largest federal investment in rural health care in U.S. history. Montana secured the fourth-largest allocation of any state. “This historic funding is a game changer for Montana’s rural communities,” said Zinke. “Access to quality health care close to home is essential and has historically been hard to come by for our families and workers in small towns. As anyone living in the rural West knows, D.C.’s one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work in our communities. This investment empowers Montana’s health care workers and officials to keep our communities healthy in a way that makes sense for Montana and our way of life.” Montana will use this funding to boost the rural healthcare workforce, secure financial stability for providers, and focus on prevention and community health. It also aims to expand technology through improved interoperability and electronic medical record upgrades. Key initiatives include creating a Rural Center of Excellence, launching new care and payment models, implementing SNAP waivers, forming an EMS Compact, and introducing Medicaid reforms like telehealth and remote patient monitoring. Read Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services press release here. Read the Montana program funding summary here. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-applauds-passage-funding-montana-law-enforcement-infrastructure Downing Applauds Passage of Funding for Montana Law Enforcement, Infrastructure 2026-01-08 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) released a statement following House passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. The legislation includes nearly $3,629,000 in total funding for local priorities across Yellowstone, Lewis and Clark, Cascade, and Toole Counties which can be referenced in Division A and Division C of the bill’s Joint Explanatory Statement. Funded projects include the replacement of a critical piece of infrastructure in the Billings Bench Water Association’s canal system, upgraded crime scene and communications equipment for law enforcement, and detention center upgrades. Passage of H.R. 6938 is a critical step in securing funding for the projects. Following approval by the full House of Representatives, the legislation must be approved by the Senate and signed into law by the President. Each member is limited in the number of projects they can submit, and the application process is extremely competitive. This is the first time in years that a Congressman from Montana’s Eastern District has advocated for community project funding. “Montanans, not Washington bureaucrats, know best when it comes to addressing the needs of our communities,” said Congressman Downing. “These funding requests were submitted in close consultation with local stakeholders and promise to greatly expand law enforcement capabilities and critical infrastructure. If there’s money to be spent in Montana’s Second District, I’ll fight for every cent to deliver for my constituents.” “The City of Billings sincerely thanks Congressman Downing for his leadership in securing funding for the Canyon Creek Flume project in legislation currently under consideration by the House of Representatives,”said Billings Mayor Mike Nelson. “This project is vital to the long-term resilience of Billings’ water system, and the federal investment he championed will help protect and strengthen our infrastructure for decades to come.” “Great Falls is s… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases/downing-daines-sheehy-zinke-urge-us-air-force-address-delayed-aircraft Downing, Daines, Sheehy, Zinke Urge U.S. Air Force to Address Delayed Aircraft Delivery to Montana Air National Guard 2026-01-08 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Troy Downing D000634 downing.house.gov downing https://downing.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02), U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-01) sent a letter to U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink expressing concern about continued delivery delays in C-130J aircraft to the Montana Air National Guard. “We write to you today to express our concern regarding continued delays in C-130J aircraft deliveries to the Montana Air National Guard and to emphasize the importance of timely receipt. The Montana Air National Guard 120th Airlift Wing currently operates a fleet of 8 C-130Hs, all of which are scheduled to be replaced with the upgraded and improved C-130J model. That critical upgrade will allow the Wing to better respond to national defense operations, natural disasters, conduct more efficient airlift operations, and carry out their wildfire and rescue missions… … We request that you provide answers to the following questions: What, specifically, has caused these delivery delays? What remedies can be pursued to bring this program back on schedule? …Thank you for your support and we look forward to working with you to ensure Montana’s Air National Guard receives the aircraft they have been promised on a reasonable timeline,” they wrote in the letter. Read the full letter here. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-secures-over-8-million-water-infrastructure-and-law-enforcement-projects Zinke Secures Over $8 Million for Water Infrastructure and Law Enforcement Projects Across 8 Western Montana Counties in FY2026 Appropriations Package 2026-01-08 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the House passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026., a comprehensive funding package that delivers real results for Montana. The package strengthens public safety, advances energy and water infrastructure, supports rural and Tribal communities, and restores commonsense management of public lands. As a senior member of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, Zinke successfully championed Montana priorities across all three bills, including funding for rural law enforcement, clean water projects, Tribal public safety, forest management, and responsible energy development. "These bills reflect Montana values: strong communities, safe streets, reliable infrastructure, and access to our public lands," said Zinke. "I fought to ensure Montana wasn't an afterthought. From sheriff's departments and clean water systems to forest management and Tribal public safety, these investments put resources directly into our communities." Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Topline: $38.6 billion in total discretionary funding, a slight decrease from FY25 with cost savings from renewable energy projects and EPA reductions Protects public land access by preventing delays on grazing and new ammunition or fishing tackle regulations $3.27 billion for the National Park Service $33.8 million increase for Indian Health Programs $14.5 million increase for Tribal Public Safety and Justice programs $7.4 million increase for onshore oil and gas development at BLM $1.52 billion for Wildland Fire Management, including $370 million for fire suppression cap adjustment Montana Wins: Zinke’s requested Montana Community Projects $1.75 million for the Philipsburg Water Transmission Line Upgrade $1.75 million for Missoula County Water Well Upgrades $1 million for Alberton Water Storage Project Full funding of the PILT progr… 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/dow-moves-punish-senator-featured-reckless-video-targeting-us-troops-following DOW Moves to Punish Senator Featured in Reckless Video Targeting U.S. Troops Following Zinke’s Resolution 2026-01-05 2026 2026-01 Republican House MT Ryan K. Zinke Z000018 zinke.house.gov zinke https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and former U.S. Navy SEAL Ryan Zinke praised reports that the Department of War is moving to downgrade Sen. Mark Kelly’s military retirement rank and pay following his participation in a video encouraging servicemembers to independently judge and refuse orders from the Commander in Chief. In November, Congressman Zinke and 16 other veteran lawmakers introduced a resolution condemning the video released by Sen. Kelly and several Democratic members of Congress, warning that it undermined military discipline and risked politicizing the armed forces. The resolution emphasized that lawful orders, military justice, and civilian control of the military must be handled through established legal and constitutional processes and not through partisan messaging. “Our resolution condemning Democrat lawmakers for releasing that seditious video was intended to hold them accountable for their actions. Secretary of War Hegseth is taking the next necessary step fulfilling his sworn duty to uphold discipline, the cornerstone of military service,” said Zinke. “The Uniform Code of Military Justice holds soldiers to a higher standard, and individuals like retired Navy Captain Kelly remain subject to it. Advocating that troops must disobey orders deemed ‘illegal’ by the ‘Seditious Six’ is a clear violation. Well done, Secretary Hegseth.” Read Zinke’s full resolution here. ### 1 2026-04-04T05:28:40Z 2026-04-04T05:30:10Z

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