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-stricken small businesses.

This legislation would require the SEC’s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation to add rural small businesses to its list of applicable entities.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/30/daines-celebrates-the-50th-anniversary-of-the-hyde-amendment-every-life-born-and-unborn-is-valued/,"Daines Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Hyde Amendment: “Every Life, Born and Unborn, is Valued”",2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Sponsors Resolution Commemorating Hyde Amendment’s Legacy

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Americans United for Life at their September 30th rally celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Hyde Amendment. Originally enacted in 1976, this amendment has saved the lives of millions of unborn children and protected taxpayers from violating their conscience by funding elective abortions.

Daines today also joined Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) in introducing a resolution to recognize the Hyde Amendment’s legacy over the past 50 years. Read the resolution HERE.

Watch Daines’ full remarks at the Americans United for Life rally HERE:

Read Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the Hyde Amendment-one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in our nation’s history that defends the unborn and taxpayer conscience.

The Hyde Amendment protects the constitutional right to religious liberty and affirms that federal funds cannot be used to fund abortions.

A majority of Americans support this.

And yet, pro-abortion advocates attempt to undermine Hyde daily.

In their own 2024-2025 report, Planned Parenthood reported that they received $832 million in federal funds through Medicaid and Title X.

This Medicaid funding was temporarily blocked for one year thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts and Jobs act, which I was proud to support.

But one year has passed, and Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood has resumed again.

I will work with my colleagues in Congress to reinstate this ban and make it permanent.

We also need to educate the next generation about how dangerous the abortion pill is, for both babies and for the women who take it. This is the left’s next battleground, and we can’t let them win.

The grassroots movement, from our AUL doorknockers to the church ministries to the pregnancy clinics, is critically important.

Thank you to everyone here- you are true examples of what it means to fight for what’s right, even when it’s not easy.

And most importantly, we need your prayers.

Prayer is the most powerful tool that we have on our side.

I’ll close with Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart.”

I’m hopeful that one day, by the grace of God, abortion will be unthinkable and every preborn child will be protected by law.

###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/29/daines-peters-resolution-commemorating-35-years-of-independence-for-central-asian-nations-passes-u-s-senate/,"Daines, Peters Resolution Commemorating 35 Years of Independence for Central Asian Nations passes U.S. Senate",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.), cofounders of the Senate Central Asia Caucus, announced that their resolution commemorating 35 years of independence for the five Central Asian nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) passed the U.S. Senate with bipartisan support. Senators Curtis (R-Utah) and Dave McCormick (R-Penn.) joined Daines and Peters in introducing the resolution.

“In the 35 years since Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan gained independence from the Soviet Union, we’ve made substantial progress in deepening our relationships and working towards our mutual goals, including increased trade and national security. I am thrilled to see my resolution commemorating these 35 years of independence pass the U.S. Senate, and I look forward to the continuation of our partnerships,” said Daines.

“Our diplomatic alliances with the nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have strengthened the United States’ economy, counterterrorism efforts, and national security interests. As Central Asia becomes increasingly vulnerable to the influence of our adversaries it’s imperative that the United States stays engaged with our allies in the region. I’m proud to support this resolution to commemorate the 35th anniversary of independence for our Central Asia partners. I’m committed to ensuring that our partnership continues to promote regional stability, good governance, and economic cooperation,” said Peters.

“For 35 years, the nations of Central Asia have charted their own paths as sovereign, independent states and become increasingly important partners in advancing regional stability, economic opportunity, and global security. I’m proud to join this bipartisan resolution recognizing that milestone and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to strengthening our partnerships across Central Asia in the years ahead,” said Curtis.

“Over the past three decades, the nations of Central Asia have emerged as increasingly important partners for the United States. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have each charted their own course as sovereign nations and become vital partners in strengthening regional stability, expanding trade, and securing critical supply chains. This bipartisan resolution recognizes that progress and reaffirms America’s commitment to deepen our security and economic partnerships, advance our interests, and counter the malign influence of our adversaries,” said McCormick.

Read the resolution HERE.

Background:

Daines has travelled to all five Central Asian countries- read more HERE. He most recently visited Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan in August- see more HERE, HERE and HERE. This year he also visited Turkmenistan- read more HERE. Last week he spoke at a United Nations General Assembly side event with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff on the importance of the TRIPP Program and increased trade with Central Asia- read more HERE.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/29/daines-urges-support-for-israel-on-senate-floor-democrats-are-distorting-reality-for-political-gain/,Daines Urges Support for Israel on Senate Floor: “Democrats are Distorting Reality for Political Gain”,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke on the Senate floor in opposition to an anti-Israel resolution proposed by Senate Democrats.

Watch his full remarks HERE.

Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Mr. President, with this misguided resolution, the Democrats are trying to distort reality for political gain.

Make no mistake, the sole objective here is not justice or accountability for Americans; it is to cut off security aid to our ally Israel in its time of need.

Of course, any loss, all loss, of American life is a tragedy. Ambassador Huckabee has called for an investigation into these deaths, and I am very confident this Administration will get to the bottom of this issue.

But this one-sided resolution shames one of our strongest allies and minimizes the Palestinian Authority’s role in inciting terrorist violence, including against Americans through their horrific “pay for slay” program which rewards terrorists with over 200 million dollars a year.

Rather than any serious attempt at accountability or justice, this is sadly another cynical ploy by Democrats to isolate our closest ally in the region and turn Israel’s righteous war of self-defense into a domestic political issue, as we’re now 30 days from an election.

For these reasons, I urge my colleagues to vote no on this resolution so we can stand with our ally Israel as they beat back the scourge of Iranian-backed terrorism.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehys-protect-americas-game-act-passes-senate-with-protect-college-sports-act/,Sheehy’s Protect America’s Game Act Passes Senate with Protect College Sports Act,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Yesterday, Senator Sheehy’s Protect America’s Game Act advanced through the Senate as part of a larger package of legislation surrounding college athletics, the Protect College Sports Act. The legislation, co-led by Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), creates a protected broadcast window for the Army-Navy game every year to preserve this national tradition, and now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

“The Army-Navy Game holds a special place in our nation’s sporting and military traditions. With a history over a century long, it transcends the significance of ordinary college football contests because it symbolizes the enduring principles of duty, honor, discipline, sacrifice, and camaraderie – something I witnessed firsthand during my time at the Naval Academy,” said Senator Sheehy. “The national attention the game receives gives Americans an opportunity to recognize the brave American heroes entering service who will defend our freedoms for years to come. That shouldn’t be overshadowed by broadcasting conflicts or postseason games. I’m proud to see my legislation preserving the tradition of ‘America’s Game’ pass the Senate and am thankful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues.”

Background:

For more than a century, the Army-Navy Game – known as “America’s Game” – has embodied excellence, duty, tradition, camaraderie, and the celebration of service. However, the potential expansion of the College Football Playoffs (CFP) and other postseason college football events threatens to undermine the traditional date reserved for “America’s Game”: the second Saturday in December. Allowing these scheduling conflicts risks diminishing the nation’s collective focus on our Military Service Academies and intruding on this longstanding, unifying, and distinctly American sporting event of significant importance to our country.

In March, President Trump issued an executive order stating that “it is the policy of the United States that no college football game, specifically college football’s CFP or other postseason games, be broadcast in a manner that directly conflicts with the Army-Navy Game.”

The Protect America’s Game Act, included as an amendment within the Protect College Sports Act, creates a protected broadcast window for the Army-Navy game every year. Specifically, it prevents the telecast of any Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) postseason college football games from one hour before Army-Navy kickoff until 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Army-Navy telecast.

Earlier this year, Senator Sheehy’s resolution recognizing the Army-Navy football game as America’s Game also passed in the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
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 President Trump for signing it into law so we can keep critical water projects moving forward in Fort Peck and across northeast Montana,” said Senator Tim Sheehy.

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.

###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/28/daines-downing-bill-protecting-rural-water-infrastructure-signed-by-president-trump-officially-law/,"Daines, Downing Bill Protecting Rural Water Infrastructure Signed by President Trump, Officially Law",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Representative Troy Downing announced that their bill to reauthorize the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act was signed by President Trump and is officially 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 Daines.

“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. 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,” said Downing.

Read the bill text HERE.

Background:

The bill reauthorizes the Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System. It extends authority for the Bureau of Reclamation to continue constructing essential water infrastructure in the Fort Peck Reservation and in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 to December 2028. The Fort Peck Dry Prairie Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. Read Daines’ press release from when he introduced the bill in January 2026 HERE. Read Daines’ press release from when the bill passed the Senate HERE.

###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/25/daines-bill-ensuring-clean-water-for-crow-tribe-passes-u-s-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Daines’ Bill Ensuring Clean Water for Crow Tribe Passes U.S. Senate, Heads to President’s Desk",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that his bill, the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Amendments Act, passed the U.S. Senate and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed in the law. The bill passed the U.S. House last week, led by Representative Troy Downing.

“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 baseload generation to the region. I’m grateful for Representative Downing’s work to get this passed in the House and am thrilled to see it pass the Senate- let’s get it across the finish line!” said Daines.

“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. Thank you to Senator Daines for leading this bill in the Senate and sending it to the President’s desk,” said Downing.

Read the bill text HERE.

Background:

The “Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act” of 2009 settled the Crow Tribe’s water rights and authorized $460 million to construct a water system for the tribe. The “Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlements Amendments Act” would update the previous settlement to be fund-based rather than project-based, and also extends the authorization for the Tribe to develop hydropower on the Yellowtail Afterbay Dam until 2030, providing clean energy and an economic boost to the community.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
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 baseload generation to the region. I’m grateful for Representative Downing’s work to get this passed in the House and am thrilled to see it pass the Senate- let’s get it across the finish line!” said Senator Steve Daines.

“The federal government must ensure tribal water settlements work as intended. S. 240 gives the Crow Tribe greater flexibility to complete critical drinking water and irrigation projects while extending its exclusive right to pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. I commend Senator Daines and Rep. Downing for championing a practical solution that strengthens tribal self-determination and supports long-term economic growth on the Crow Reservation,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman.

Read the bill HERE.

###",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 by anyone but the wealthiest among us is one reason the rich get richer and ordinary people are often left behind.

Under current SEC rules, anyone can access the private markets by being an accredited investor, which is defined by having more than $1 million in net worth, not including one’s residence, or by earning more than $200,000 per year for two consecutive years. The rules include other qualifications, but for most people, wealth remains the gatekeeper.

This leaves many “ordinary” people on the sidelines — many of whom understand the risks of investing and have built strong portfolios or financial plans either independently or with a financial adviser. A high net worth does not automatically make someone a knowledgeable investor, just as falling below an arbitrary threshold does not make someone incapable of understanding risk. In other words, a person who inherits $1 million but has no idea about how money works may qualify, but someone with a doctorate in economics with only $100,000 to invest is generally not qualified.

I have seen our capital markets from nearly every angle. I began my career as an educator and research scientist before founding a tech company that later merged with Yahoo. I went on to build multiple businesses, structure alternative investments, and raise capital through independent broker-dealers. Later, as Montana state auditor and commissioner of securities and insurance, I served as our state’s chief securities regulator. Today, I serve on the House Financial Services Committee.

Those experiences taught me that capital formation and investor protection should not be seen as competing goals. Well-designed rules can advance both.

That is why I introduced the Informed Investor Access Act. My legislation would create a new route to accredited-investor status for a specific transaction when someone receives personalized investment advice or a recommendation from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.

This is not an invitation to throw open the doors without guardrails. Registered investment advisers are bound by a fiduciary duty, and broker-dealers must comply with Regulation Best Interest. These professionals are required to consider a client’s financial circumstances and risk tolerance when making recommendations.

The current framework creates a self-reinforcing barrier: Often, people are required to meet the wealth threshold to access investments that may help them build wealth. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs in private businesses lose potential sources of capital that could help them innovate and expand.

Access must improve on both sides of the marketplace. I recently led a congressional letter urging SEC Chairman Paul Atkins to finalize the commission’s Registered Offering Reform proposal.

Among its provisions, the proposal would remove duplicative state registration and qualification reviews for certain public companies, reducing unnecessary costs while maintaining disclosure and anti-fraud protections.

This matters across the country, but especially in rural states such as Montana. Entrepreneurs and growing businesses should not be forced to move their business to a major financial center to find capital. Likewise, Montanans who work, save, and plan responsibly should not be excluded from considering an investment simply because they don’t meet the wealth threshold.

Modernizing these rules does not guarantee returns, eliminate risk, or make every investment suitable. Nor should it. These are investments without training wheels, and they should be carefully scrutinized.

Giving everyday people access gives them an opportunity to make informed choices with professional guidance, while allowing businesses to reach a broader pool of potential investors.

Building wealth should not be reserved for those who were given a head start or who are already wealthy. Congress and the SEC can preserve strong protections while replacing outdated barriers with standards that recognize individual circumstances. This is how we strengthen capital formation in America and keep America’s markets the strongest in the world.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/24/daines-joins-special-envoy-steve-witkoff-in-nyc-touts-administrations-peace-efforts-in-central-asia-and-south-caucasus/,"Daines Joins Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in NYC, Touts Administration’s Peace Efforts in Central Asia and South Caucasus",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines joined Special Envoy Steve Witkoff for an event with the Board of Peace during the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. Read highlights below.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on his involvement with Central Asia:

I remember the book The Global Chess Board that Dr. Brzezinski wrote back in the late 1990s. And he observed back then of the important interconnection between certainly Central Asia and the South Caucases. And you’ve all heard the analogy, but I took it from Brzezinski book about if we could find a way to pop the cork of the South Caucases, it would unleash the wine from Central Asia. And that’s a picture of something I could understand. And somebody who loved geography and history, even though I was trained in engineering, I loved the arts. When you take a look at a map and look at the geopolitical complexity of the region where our dear friends here live, it says if we could find ways to bring peace and to stabilize that part of the world, the prosperity that would be gained by Central Asia, the South Caucases and frankly throughout the world is something worth pursuing. And so it began years ago. But one of the challenges, Areyh, is that senators just don’t get over there that often. In fact, I was shocked when I started traveling in the region how infrequent the visits were from members of Congress. And yes, it’s a ways away, but it’s not that hard to get to at the end of the day. It’s just a matter of will and priority. And once we started to engage, we realized that this is a part of the world that wants to have a relationship in a more significant way with the United States. It was our problem of not making that easy. The Central Asia, South Caucases were leaning in. We just weren’t showing up. We started to show up, started to develop those relationships, hear the concerns and the issues on the ground there, and it started to gain momentum. And of course, look at this room today. This is just incredible.

Daines on establishing peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan:

Well first of all, let’s give credit where credit’s due. Honestly, what Steve Witkoff began, what you began is something that I started to see and to you all’s credit, you brought me along into that process. So I can’t take the credit for any of this. The credit goes to those in the room truly, but it was yourself and Steve Witkoff and John Askonas that started to frame something that could be very, very special. And I remember that first breakfast we had in Baku and we had the meeting with the President and it went very well. You could just tell there were common values and the most important currency in diplomacy is trust. It’s trust and that’s on a human level. And after completing the travels through the South Caucases, the Central Asia, meeting every one of the leaders, I remember I come back home and see my sweet wife Cindy and I’d say, “Cindy, these are really special relationships. These are leaders who want to foster this relationship with the United States and there’s trust building at this moment.” And I tell you, I couldn’t believe from those early conversations we had in Baku and then in Yerevan in May of 2025. Remarkable. And I’ll tell you, President Trump was the key linchpin in that because I know prior leaders had tried to figure out a way to navigate through the complexities and the difficult history with Azerbaijan and Armenia and we as Americans had to be very respectful of difficult decades if not going back further. And what I found is there needed to be somebody that could be trusted to help bring those hands together that Steve Wikcoff talked about and that was President Trump. and to his credit brought the leaders in Armenia and Azerbaijan to come together to come to Washington on August 8th to sign that important memorandum. That was something I’ll never ever forget.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/24/daines-reacts-to-historic-trump-xi-summit-at-the-white-house-ahead-of-attending-state-dinner/,Daines Reacts to Historic Trump-Xi Summit at the White House Ahead of Attending State Dinner,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Joins Fox News, Bloomberg TV, and Fox News Rundown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with national media to discuss President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to the White House.

Watch the full interview with Martha MacCallum on Fox News HERE.

Daines on outcomes of Trump-Xi summit:

I think it’s important to frame the bigger picture. These are the two largest economies in the world, the United States and China, the two largest militaries in the world, the United States and China. And on technology, the two leading countries in terms of AI frontier models, it’s the United States and China. They do a better job adopting AI. They’re ranked second in the world, according to Stanford. We’re ranked 24th. So we’re ahead in terms of innovation. We’re behind in terms of adoption. I think a couple of key outcomes from this summit, will be, number one, showing the stability of the relationship. It’s very important to see both President Trump and President Xi Jinping working in a constructive manner in that public-facing environment. Behind closed doors, Secretary Bessent, Vice Premier He Lifeng, they’ve been having some very direct conversations and sorting out some of the trade disputes, AI disputes, Iran and so forth. But it’s important in working with the Chinese and their government is to show respect publicly, have the spirit of conversations behind closed doors. That has been my experience of finding the most effective way to manage a productive relationship.

Watch the full interview with Joe Mathieu on Bloomberg TV HERE.

Daines on historic Trump-Xi visit:

I think it’ll be seen in China as respect. That’s a very important term as we think about this

relationship. Something that the Chinese admire is that President Trump is being very respectful of this visit. And it’s a spirit of reciprocity as well. The Chinese literally rolled out red carpet and provided respect to President Trump when he was in Beijing in May. I think when you step back,

it’s just very important to remember that the United States and China are the two largest economies in the world by far. They comprise about 42 percent of the world’s GDP. It’s the world’s two largest militaries. Of course, the two countries that have leadership in terms of frontier models of AI. So I look at this relationship as really too big to fail. And I’m very appreciative of what President Trump has been doing to stay engaged in a respectful manner. A lot of the substance in terms of discussions will be going on behind closed doors. A lot of it was done ahead of time with Secretary Bessent and the Vice Premier. So far, so good. I’ll be there tonight at the dinner and have a chance to see President Trump, who again put on quite a respectful show for President Xi.

Watch the full interview with Peter Doocy on Fox News Rundown HERE.

Daines on the race in AI against China:

I was just in Hangzhou a few weeks ago. Hangzhou, China is a city about the size of New York City. It’s one of the epicenters of AI innovation for China. Zhejiang University is there, which got ranked number one in the world in research, actually ahead of Harvard for the first time in 20 years. We cannot take lightly what China is doing right now in this AI race. It’s very important that we continue to lead. Peter, I agree with you. We lead right now in terms of capabilities on these frontier models, but where we’re behind is in adoption of AI. We’re ranked 24th by Stanford. China’s ranked second behind the UAE. So, this is all about ensuring that we have the right kind of guardrails in place, but not inhibiting innovation. That takes wise and thoughtful leadership here in the United States. This is not a good time to have a public discourse on. As you can see, there’s this kind of hysteria in Washington. When you’re 41 days away from an election, it’s not a good time to be having public debate right now in AI. It’s really become almost hysterical. We need to have calm, thoughtful heads prevailing in this discussion.

…I think there’s probably both. I will say this. I applaud what Secretary Bessent has been framing in terms of trying to deconflict what could be pinch points and friction as it relates to AI between our two countries. Similar to mill-to-mill kind of engagements, if two subs bump in the night in the Taiwan Strait we want to have a mill-to-mill red phone there to deconflict. I think the same thing could be true for AI. Secretary Bessent is on the right track there. But I think the Chinese listen to both. I think it’s important that the right kind of rhetoric and tone is set at the top because the governments will flex down through the bureaucracies according to how the leaders flex. If Xi Jinping and President Trump are having positive dialogue, we need to have that kind of dialogue down the stack from a bureaucratic viewpoint as well as in the private sector.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/23/daines-previews-xi-summit-on-fox-news-we-want-to-see-strategic-stability/,Daines Previews Xi Summit on Fox News: “We Want to See Strategic Stability”,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Harris Faulkner on Fox News to discuss the latest on the race in AI against China and the war in Iran.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on Xi Jinping’s visit to the US:

So let’s keep in mind we’ve got the two largest economies in the world, China, the United States. We’ve got the two largest militaries in the world and the two leaders in AI in the world. So the stakes could not be higher. The world will be watching every moment, every word coming out of Washington this week. And credit to President Trump, who was just in Beijing in May, engaging with Xi Jinping and now returning that reciprocal visit, returning Xi Jinping now to Washington, D.C. This is unprecedented. Four short months, two heads of states, the two countries in the respective capitals.

…I think the world wants to see this relationship staying on relatively stable terms. I think the key word coming out of our team, the United States, is we want to see strategic stability. You’ve heard that. That’s important because disruptions in this relationship disrupts the global economy. It disrupts what’s going on militarily, potentially. So the stakes are very high. And a credit to President Trump for keeping this relationship. The lines of communication open with Xi Jinping. And by the way, we’ve got a great ambassador over in China, David Perdue. He worked in Asia, worked in China, very close to the President. We couldn’t have a better ambassador this moment in Beijing, and he’ll be here tonight in Washington.

Daines on AI race against China:

Yeah, it baffles me a bit because what’s at stake here is global competition. We have got to go faster than China. This really is all about a race. And if you look at what’s happening in terms of public opinion. It shifted and becomes negative sentiments. Now, if I was China looking at wanting to influence public opinion in America, what would I want to see happen? I want to see the public start to move against, from a public opinion point, against AI. And so this concerns me a bit and what’s going on right now in shaping public opinion.

…One of the big cities in China is called Hangzhou. It’s one of their epicenters of innovation as it relates to AI. That’s where DeepSeek is that, of course, made waves here last year in terms of AI frontier models. This is where Xi Jinping was not long ago, talking about one of their AI summits. You realize China’s graduating three to five to maybe ten times more engineers every year than we are here in the United States. They’re building out a world-class innovation ecosystem, and it continues to grow larger and larger every day. We’re falling behind in terms of the innovation ecosystem. We’re still ahead in AI. The Chinese do a better job of adopting it, putting it in place. In fact, Stanford ranked China second in the world behind the UAE. It ranked the United States 24th. So we’ve got our work cut out for us. This is why we need, I would call it adaptive governance, a light, it relates to regulatory regime. We want to be able to move as fast as we can from the innovation viewpoint, but also protect possible downsides of AI. It’s going to take thoughtful leadership in Washington. It’s going to take strong input from the private sector. That’s what, because it’s moving so fast, Harris, we can’t keep up with it.

…We’ve never seen a technology move so fast. The recursive nature of AI, what that means is AI is now programming AI. It’s becoming less about humans generating the next frontier models as AI generating the next AI models. So it’s moving that fast. The question is, how do you put the right kind of guardrails in place that protect the American public, but also do not inhibit innovation.

Daines on the latest Iranian Regime:

It’s hard to understand who is in charge and who really speaks for the regime… I think he’s one of those voices. I think there’s other voices as well. But let’s step back and think about what happens with Iran. destabilizing the world. The Houthis, Hamas, Hezbollah, these are all proxies of Iran. And imagine for a moment what a world would be like with this regime gone and the people of Iran who generally are pro-America back in charge again. We saw that prior to 1979. I remember those days when Iran was very different. Imagine what our children and grandchildren could have someday if we had an Iran that was back in terms of complying with the world order and working with us instead of trying to destroy us every day.

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/22/daines-cantwell-urge-cms-to-protect-organ-donation-services-recertify-lifecenter-northwest/,"Daines, Cantwell Urge CMS to Protect Organ Donation Services, Recertify LifeCenter Northwest",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy and Administrator Oz of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, urging strong support for the recertification of LifeCenter Northwest, the primary organ procurement organization (OPO) for the states of Montana, Washington, Alaska, and northern Idaho.

“LifeCenter Northwest is the federally designated OPO for a non-contiguous service area spanning three time zones and covering all of Alaska and Montana, most of Washington, and 11 counties in northern Idaho. The organization serves more than 10 million people across approximately 808,000 square miles and coordinates donation services for more than 200 hospitals. Despite serving this expansive region and large population, there are only five transplant centers in the entire service area, all located in Washington state. As a result, organs frequently must be transported over long distances within narrow clinical timeframes, often relying on air transport across a geographically dispersed region.

…We support performance evaluation frameworks grounded in sound, evidence-based measures. However, we are concerned that CMS’s current OPO evaluation methodology does not adequately account for the unique circumstances and operational challenges inherent in serving a large, rural, geographically dispersed service area, like our region. These structural challenges include limited availability and proximity of transplant centers, variation in acceptance practices for medically complex organs, and unique transportation logistics. Unlike many CMS quality frameworks, the current methodology relies heavily on two closely related outcome measures, provides limited risk adjustment for differences in OPO circumstances, and does not recognize sustained year-over-year improvement. As result, effective OPOs, like LifeCenter Northwest, may be inaccurately assessed despite strong overall performance,” they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) joined Daines and Cantwell in sending the letter.

Representatives Michael Baumgartner (WA-05), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Troy Downing (MT-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Emily Randall (WA-06), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Adam Smith (WA-09), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Ryan Zinke (MT-01) also joined in sending the letter.

###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/18/daines-urges-colleagues-to-support-clean-water-infrastructure-in-montana/,Daines Urges Colleagues to Support Clean Water Infrastructure in Montana,2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“These samples aren’t from third-world countries. They’re coming out of faucets in Montana”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke in a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing where he discussed his bill to bring clean drinking water to eastern Montana and reform the hydropower licensing process.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on the “Dry Redwater Regional Water Authorization Act:”

The “Dry Red Water Regional Water Authorization Act” will authorize the construction of critical water systems in eastern Montana. In fact, back in 2020, Congress passed my bill for the Bureau of Reclamation to complete a feasibility study to bring clean drinking water to Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, and Richland counties in Montana, as well as McKenzie County in North Dakota. After five years, Reclamation finished their study, and in response, the Montana delegation drafted and introduced Senate Bill 4489, which will federally authorize this water system and add it to the rural water program. I want to show my colleagues why this bill is so important and why I have been working on rural water issues in this committee since day one. I brought some water samples today from Montanans in McCone County. Now, I’m not bringing these samples from a third-world country. This is literally water coming out of some faucets in McCone County in Montana. You can’t see this one quite as well. But if you look at it as closely as I can see it, you never want to think about pouring that out of your faucet and taking a sip of water from it. Obviously, this is water that families in Montana should not be drinking. My bill will finally authorize the Dry Red Water Regional Water Authority system and bring clean drinking water to over 30,000 Montanans in towns like Glendive, Circle, Richey, Jordan, and Sidney. I look forward to working with the Bureau of Reclamation and this community to get this bill to the President’s desk and be in construction of this important project.

Daines on the “Hydropower Licensing and Affordability Act:”

Senate Bill 5048, the Hydropower Licensing and Affordability Act would make very targeted changes to Sections 4(e) and 18 of the Federal Power Act to ensure that federal agencies focus on the direct effects of a project when they’re licensing or relicensing a hydropower dam. Federal agencies have weaponized what’s called mandatory conditioning where they can require a hydropower operator to do specific actions before granting a license. We’ve seen this weaponization repeatedly in Montana and across the West and it has resulted in massive project costs and risk the continuation of solid hydropower projects. For example, in Montana, the Thompson Falls Dam is currently going through relicensing, and we’re fighting back against unnecessary and unrelated conditions from agencies. This bill would remove the abuse without weakening environmental or endangered species protections or limiting tribal and state consultation. Senate Bill 5048 simply adds one line to the existing sections of the law, ensuring that mandatory conditions are limited to those that, quote, “reasonably mitigate the direct adverse effect of the applicable project,” end quote. This is straightforward and should not be a controversial proposal. I look forward to working with the Chairman to include this in the permitting package or a future markup.

###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
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 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.",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 Crow Tribe greater flexibility to complete critical drinking water and irrigation projects while extending its exclusive right to pursue hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam. I commend Senator Daines and Rep. Downing for championing a practical solution that strengthens tribal self-determination and supports long-term economic growth on the Crow Reservation,” said House Committee of Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman.

Read the bill HERE.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/16/daines-cortez-masto-bill-to-bolster-made-in-america-hydropower-passes-u-s-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Daines, Cortez Masto Bill to Bolster Made-In-America Hydropower Passes U.S. Senate, Heads to President’s Desk",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) today announced that their bill, the “Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act,” has passed the U.S. Senate and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

“This is a huge win for Montana and the entire country. Hydropower is an affordable, reliable source of baseload power that is necessary to meet the growing demand for U.S. energy. This bill will help shed light on much-needed reforms to improve the licensing process and reduce the permitting backlog, and I’m glad to have worked with Senator Cortez Masto to get it through the Senate. Let’s get it signed into law!” said Daines.

“As costs rise and demand surges, we need to adopt an all-of-the-above approach when it comes to energy. That includes hydropower. But right now, bureaucratic delays are causing the relicensing process for hydropower projects to take an average of seven to ten years. Today, Senator Daines and I delivered a solution that will slash red tape and unleash American hydropower,” said Cortez Masto.

Read the bill text HERE.

Background:

Daines and Cortez Masto introduced the Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act in December 2025. Daines has been an avid supporter of hydropower- read more HERE.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/16/daines-downing-bill-protecting-rural-water-infrastructure-passes-u-s-senate-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Daines, Downing Bill Protecting Rural Water Infrastructure Passes U.S. Senate, Heads to President’s Desk",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Representative Troy Downing today announced that their bill to reauthorize the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System Act passed the U.S. Senate, and will now head to the President’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.

“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 Daines.

“Reliable access to clean water is essential for the Fort Peck Reservation and communities across northeastern Montana. The Senate’s passage of this reauthorization is an important step toward keeping critical water infrastructure projects on track. I look forward to seeing this legislation reach the president’s desk,” said Downing.

“Clean, reliable water is essential to the health and future of our rural communities, and this bill will help ensure critical projects at Fort Peck and across northeast Montana keep moving forward. I was proud to be presiding over the Senate floor when this important legislation passed, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law,” said Sheehy.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Background:

The bill will reauthorize the Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System. It extends authority for the Bureau of Reclamation to continue constructing essential water infrastructure in the Fort Peck Reservation and in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 to December 2028. The Fort Peck Dry Prairie Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. Read Daines’ press release from when he introduced the bill in January 2026 HERE.

Statements of Support:

“The Dry Prairie Rural Water Authority would like to thank Senator Daines, Senator Sheehy and Rep. Downing for their diligent work in seeing the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System to completion. As Senator Daines said, this vital drinking water project that has brought Tribal and non-Tribal communities together is 95% complete and is life changing for the people of Northeast Montana.” –Rick Knick, Chairman of Dry Prairie

“The Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water System would like to thank Senator Daines and Senator Sheehy for today’s passage of the bill to ensure that our partners, the Dry Prairie Rural Water System, will be able to complete the construction of their portion of the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System. This project is truly historic and is changing for the better the lives of the people in Northeast Montana.” – Rick Kirn, Chairman of the Assiniboine and Sioux Rural Water Board

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/16/daines-on-fox-business-we-cannot-slow-down-in-the-race-against-china/,Daines on Fox Business: “We Cannot Slow Down in the Race Against China”,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Stuart Varney on Fox Business to discuss the latest on diesel prices and race in AI against China.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on diesel fuel prices:

We are farm and ranch country in Montana. We pride ourselves on that rich heritage. Look, the farmers and ranchers, they feel the pain at the pump. They feel pain right now with low wheat prices, barley prices, corn prices, soybean prices. But I tell you what, the farmers and ranchers, they’re not into politics. They’re pragmatic patriots. And they look at alternatives in terms of what’s on the ballot. They recognize what’s going on right now is a temporary disruption in supply and demand. Secretary Wright talked about the hit on that Saudi pipeline. The Russians have stopped any diesel exports at the moment and that creates more pressure, upwards pressure, on diesel prices. But let’s not forget the last administration brought into this crazy climate insanity. They wanted to ban combustion engines, they wanted to ban fossil fuels. Our farmers and ranchers know that the alternative to going backwards to the Biden years and that kind of ideology is dangerous for our country. They see that this is a short-term spike in prices, but they know that President Trump and Republicans want to continue to build out North American and American energy supply. That’s a sound strategy for the future. This crazy Green New Deal of the Left is something that will set us back a generation. So I’m confident we’ll have a good showing here in 2026.

Daines on the Iran conflict:

The regime in Iran, they like to see a weak president. They’d love to go back to the days of Obama and Joe Biden, weak presidents that did not have clarity in terms of foreign policy and making America safer. So, of course, they want to undermine President Trump and Republicans who believe in America first and making sure that America is strong. So, it’s not surprising. I think the Iranians, the Iranian regime, not the people, but the Iranian regime want to undermine everything President Trump is doing between now and election day in November.

Daines on the AI race against China:

I spent some time in Hangzhou, which is a city that’s larger than New York, that many have never heard of, but it’s the epicenter of a lot of the tech innovation in China. Very impressive. It’s important to understand what the competition is out there. We’re ahead as it relates to the frontier models in AI, thankfully, and we’ll continue to keep that lead as long as we don’t put policies in place that will somehow slow us down. This is a race, Stuart. It’s important that America wins that race. We are not as strong in adoption on AI. The Chinese are second in the world. We’re ranked 24th by Stanford. But in terms of innovation, we’re in the lead today. It’s very important to win this. And this is why we’ve got this big debate in Washington on AI. What is the right plan going forward? I’m just concerned that D.C. is not capable of effectively regulating something it doesn’t understand. We need to make sure we have strong input here, certainly from our best and brightest in this space in America.

…Slow down is a mistake. When you’re running a race, last time I checked, Stuart, a winning strategy is not to slow down.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehys-air-traffic-situational-awareness-enhancement-act-advances-through-senate-commerce-committee/,Sheehy’s Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act Advances through Senate Commerce Committee,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Senator Tim Sheehy’s Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act today advanced out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The bill, co-led by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), provides air traffic controllers more tools and training to keep American airspace safe. It now heads to the Senate floor for full consideration.

“America has long set the gold standard in aviation, but a lack of resources and outdated technology puts public safety at risk. It’s crucial that we ensure our Air Traffic Controllers in airports across the country, including regional and rural airports, have the training and tools they need to enhance their situational awareness and keep our airspace safe. This practical, bipartisan legislation makes sure our technology is upgraded to meet our modern aviation safety needs, and I’m pleased to see it head to the Senate floor,” said Senator Sheehy.

“Oregon’s small and regional airports are an important partner in keeping the flying public safe. Our simple bipartisan bill—which just cleared a key hurdle—will unlock resources for these airports to make critical safety upgrades if they need them, something we should all get behind,” said Senator Merkley.

Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) joined Sheehy and Merkley in introducing the Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act in February. The bill is supported by the Regional Airline Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Airlines for America, and National Business Aviation Association.

Background:

Many airports, particularly smaller and rural ones under the Federal Contract Tower (FCT) program, still lack modern situational awareness technology such as Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems (STARS) or other radar-integrated displays. Of the 266 Federal Contract Towers, more than 90 lack any surveillance tools. In towers at these airports, controllers rely on visual observation and radio calls, tools that can become strained during periods of high traffic, complex mixed operations, or reduced visibility. This technology gap can contribute to missed traffic conflicts or delayed recognition of emerging hazards.

As part of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, Congress directed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to approve technology to improve operational situational awareness at FCTs, after years of requests from airports asking for assistance in addressing this technological gap.

Last summer, the FAA approved the first Airborne Position Reference Tool (APRT), which uses ADS-B data to present controllers with a real-time display of local airspace. Since then, APRTs have already been deployed at several airports around the country, and controllers and operators report that APRTs significantly enhance situational awareness and improve controller confidence, bolstering safety.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/15/daines-on-fox-news-we-need-to-be-gold-medalists-in-the-ai-race/,Daines on Fox News: “We Need to Be Gold Medalists in the AI Race”,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“The complexity of AI far exceeds the capacity of the government to understand and regulate it”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Harris Faulkner on Fox News to discuss the latest on artificial intelligence policy and the race against China.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on the AI race versus China:

Well, I just returned from China a couple of weeks ago. I was in Hangzhou, the city larger than New York City. It’s the home of many of the high-tech companies that are some of the best and brightest of China, including DeepSeek, an AI company. Let’s remember we’re in a global race. It’s imperative the United States wins this race. And for those who assert that we should somehow slow down is nonsense. This is about continuing to move as quickly as possible because we are in a race. The bronze or silver medal is not good enough. We need to be the gold medalists in this race in AI. If you look at China at the moment, they’re doing a much better job of adopting AI. They’re ranked second in the world in adoption by Stanford. The United States is ranked 24th. So we’ve got some superiorities related to the innovation ecosystem we’re building in terms of our frontier models and AI. But think about China. They graduate five to ten times more engineers every year in the United States. So the scale and quality of the innovation ecosystem in China, including AI, is now some of the best. We have a peer competitor, and we’ve got to be very thoughtful as we go forward to make sure that the federal government doesn’t get in the way of ensuring that we beat China in this race.

…There’s this thing called a midterm election, Harris, last time I checked coming up. Early voting is starting here in a couple of weeks. And so this is probably a poor time to be having discourse about this issue. We should probably wait until after the election. It reminds me a bit, Harris, remember the days of the climate change hysteria coming from the left about the world was going to end, the polar ice caps were going to be gone and so forth. All these predictions never came true. I hear a little bit of that right now from some of my colleagues on the left side of the aisle who are creating hysteria and want to create this to be a political issue versus thoughtfulness here in Washington about what is the best path going forward here for the United States.

Daines on AI regulation:

This is the same kind of rhetoric we heard from the left about banning all fossil fuels years ago. Imagine the mess we’d be in had they had their way and how that would have put China in an amazing competitive advantage over the United States if we would have disarmed relates to fossil fuels. Thank God we were the leading oil and gas producer in the world. But I think there’s a similar argument here. I was thinking about AI. There is so much good that can be done. Think about what we can do to collaborate in terms of cures for cancer. There’s some wonderful work going on that truly could deal with one of the, I lost my father to cancer in April. I mean, can you imagine if we had cures for cancer? So that’s something that the power and the good that AI can bring. But we should not be blind to the fact there are some downside risks, you know, bio-terrorism, other things that we need to be very concerned about. And that’s why thoughtful conversation, appropriate guardrails. But any time the government tries to jump in and regulate something, it does not understand. The complexity of AI far exceeds the capacity of government to understand and regulate it. That’s one of the dilemmas we face at this moment. And that’s why it’s going to be very important that some of our best thought leaders, smartest people coming from the private sector with some blend with those in public service come together and work on this issue. But we have no business as a bunch of bureaucrats here in Washington as elected leaders who most don’t even use AI on a daily basis. Why would you want to have those elected leaders being the ones regulating it?

…That’s the right track is bring in our best and brightest. We’ve got some of the best

and brightest, thank God, here in the United States on AI. Those are the folks who will be helping shape the path going forward. I worked in a cloud computing startup. I took the company public. I was an executive for 12 years. There’s a fiduciary responsibility that you have as a tech leader because your name, your brand is on the line every day. Can you imagine if there’s a New York Times, Wall Street Journal article about how your company destroyed part of this economy or humanity because of your technology. Believe me, there’s self-corrective measures in terms of fiduciary accountability to shareholders to make sure that there is some self-governance and self-policing within the private sector. Now, I’m not suggesting it’s the Wild West and laissez-faire, but let’s strike the right balance here of the thought leaders here with appropriate guardrails. Let’s tap it light right now. We cannot go down the left’s call to stop or put a moratorium in AI. That hands this race right to China.

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/09/15/daines-to-fda-protect-womens-health-release-safety-review-of-abortion-pill/,"Daines to FDA: Protect Women’s Health, Release Safety Review of Abortion Pill",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke in a Senate Finance Committee hearing with Chris Klomp, nominee to be Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services. They discussed the FDA’s ongoing safety review of mifepristone as well as Most-Favored Nation drug pricing policies.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on the dangers of the abortion pill:

Daines: We want to make sure we let the data speak as it relates to mifepristone. What does the data tellus? There was analysis done of 865,000 mifepristone prescriptions compiled from insurance claims. That’s a large data set. They found that nearly 11 percent of women experienced a serious adverse event. And let me define the serious adverse event.In most cases that meant going to the emergency room for some serious condition within 45 days oftaking mifepristone. That’s 22 times higher than the FDA’s long-standing estimate,which is less than 0.5 percent. So a big gap between what we’re seeing in insurance claims andwhat the FDA said when they originally released it. During the Biden administration,I believe they had some reckless COVID-era policies that removed, as you mentioned,the in-person dispensing requirement. And serious questions remain whether onlineprescribers can adequately assess gestational age, rule out an atopic pregnancy,or identify situations involving coercion or abuse without a direct in-person evaluation.Secretary Kennedy has stated the FDA is conducting its own comprehensive study ofmifepristone. I’m encouraged by this and continue to urge the agency to complete its review.in a timely manner. Let the data speak, not politics here up on Capitol Hill.

Klomp: Senator, we strongly agree on this point. We have an obligation always to follow the evidence.

Daines: The hope here is that we take the temperature down on the politics of this sensitive issue and let the data speak, frankly, let the women speak, who are seeing a 22-time higher adverse effect from the use of this drug than what the FDA claimed. Specifically, Mr. Klomp, given that the FDA is legally required to file an official update on the status detailing the progress of the safety review by October 7th of this year that’s coming up do you believe the agency will be able to release the full review before the calendar year ends?

Klomp: I checked in on this with the agency just a couple of days ago. I do believe that we are on target to file that interim update and I do believe that we are on target as a department to produce the finished study and results before the end of the year.

Daines on Most-Favored Nation drug pricing concerns:

Daines: I’d like to turn to the issue of most favored nation drug pricing and the GLOBE and GUARD models under review by the Office of Management and Budget. We greatly appreciate the administration’s efforts to lower drug costs for Americans. I know the folks back home in Montana will be standing on their chairs cheering for that ambition. And I do believe President Trump has done more to achieve this goal than any of his predecessors. With this said, I do have some serious concerns having just come from back from China two weeks ago, looking at the innovation ecosystem going on right now in the biosciences and biotech space. The impact these models could have on the American biotech industry, especially at this moment when China is rapidly closing the innovation gap and seeking to overtake the United States as a global leader in biotech. I’ve heard from a lot of smaller and midsize companies about how these models could have a negative outsized impact on their ability to engage in R&D, attract investment, and pursue complex or uncertain therapies. These are companies who are responsible for more than half of FDA-approved medicines and involve nearly 75 percent of American clinical trials. It truly is the lifeblood of biotech innovation. Mr. Klomp, was the risk to the U.S. innovation base a consideration before GLOBE and GUARD were advanced?

Klomp: Senator, thank you for that question. The president was unequivocal in a joint mandate that he gave our team. Lower prices for Americans at the pharmacy counter by getting other wealthy countries to pay their fair share so that we don’t pay three times what they do for the same drug, same box, same manufacturer. And number two, do not harm American leadership and biotechnology. And so we have worked to do just that.

Daines: The latest I just saw, you talked about the large molecules crossing the 50% threshold first time ever coming out of China. They can do a phase one clinical trial now in half the time at 20 percent of the cost. And so it’s game on, and what we need to do is be able to go faster and be more efficient.

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
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 out of this underlying problem.

Premiums also climb because of the rising cost of care. Prescription drugs alone now account for more than 25 percent of every premium dollar. That is a huge number. A prescription drug can pass through multiple layers of middlemen before it reaches the patient, with costs and rebates often hidden along the way.

In my first legislative session as Insurance Commissioner, my office sponsored the Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) Transparency Act, carried by Senator Greg Hertz, to make those PBMs report their costs, rebates, and fees. There is more to do, and most of it has to happen at the federal level. Regarding PBMs, federal ERISA preemption, which governs employer health plans, is one area we need to look at closely, so states have more power to regulate the entire PBM market rather than just a subset.

One of the clearest places to start is the 340B program. It is a critical source of affordable medication for many of our rural hospitals and the patients they serve. We need to protect this program for the providers and patients who depend on it. We also need reforms that prevent abuse and ensure the program serves the patients and providers it was designed to help. It is a significant program, and taxpayers deserve accountability.

I make it a point to visit as many of our critical access hospitals and rural clinics as I can. Some of them get as much as 80 percent of their income from Medicare and Medicaid, which tells you how much those programs matter in rural Montana.

Two of the biggest challenges I hear about are workforce shortages and housing. Time and again, a facility gets good applicants who cannot find a place to live and withdraw their applications.

In many rural communities, there simply are not enough workers to fill critical health care jobs. Last year, Congress set aside $50 billion for rural health transformation, and Montana was one of the largest recipients in the country. That investment is good for Montana, but it also reflects the scale of the challenge facing rural health care.

There is no single fix here, but there are good ideas we need to put to work. First, we should expand Health Savings Accounts; let people put more into them, and let them use the money for premiums, deductibles, direct primary care, and healthy living, not just for high-deductible plans.

When patients have more control over their health care dollars, they become more engaged in what care costs and what value they are receiving. This helps re-establish traditional patient-provider relationships.

Second, we should allow people to buy the plans they actually want, including short-term and catastrophic coverage.

Third, we should create a dedicated way to cover the highest-cost patients instead of forcing the entire individual market to function like a high-risk pool.

There are real challenges ahead. We need to protect rural and critical access hospitals while making sure the system remains sustainable. We need to give young and healthy Montanans a reason to value their coverage, so we can spread the risk. We need to bring down prescription drug prices and add transparency to the prescription drug supply chain. We need reimbursement rates that keep our providers open for business.

This work requires a serious conversation focused on what actually lowers costs and improves access. That means listening to the people delivering care and the Montanans who depend on it. I have spent years working on these issues from both the state and federal level, and I will keep working with Montanans to get it right.""

###",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 other work that gives the local foresters greater flexibility to actively manage forests surrounding the community.

Creates designated recreation areas and protects winter access. The legislation establishes six designated recreation areas totaling roughly 60,000 acres, including securing permanent winter access for snowmobiles and adds new mountain biking routes while protecting existing routes and creates a connected Off-Highway Vehicle trail loop more than 70 miles long, including approximately 20 miles of new trails.

Protects public access and recreation. The bill maintains and expands opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and off-highway vehicle use while creating new and improved trail connections throughout the Blackfoot Valley.

Protects iconic backcountry. The legislation adds roughly 100,000 acres to the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat wilderness areas, creates wilderness on Nevada Mountain, and releases approximately 23,000 acres of Wilderness Study Area land from analysis paralysis and restores public access and multiple use to those lands..

Broad Local Support

The A River Runs Through It Act grew out of years of work among people who have not always agreed on how public lands should be managed but came together around a plan that supports multiple use and the communities of the Blackfoot Valley.

The unified proposal is supported by Wild Montana, Montana Trout Unlimited, The Wilderness Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Back Country Horsemen of Montana, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, along with local residents, businesses, and recreation interests. The collaborative efforts that form the foundation of the legislation have also received support from local elected officials and members of the timber industry.

“Wild Montana is honored to be part of the two collaboratives that have spent more than two decades developing solutions for the public lands of the Blackfoot watershed. Seeing this work come together in the A River Runs Through It Act is a remarkable achievement. The legislation would protect iconic landscapes, expand recreation access, strengthen forest restoration, support rural economies, and resolve long-standing wilderness study area designations. If passed, it would also establish Montana’s first wilderness designation since 2014. We are grateful for Representative Zinke’s leadership in listening to the residents, businesses, and public land users who know this landscape best. This proposal was built the Montana way: by sitting down together, working through differences, and finding common ground for a place we all love. Now it is up to Congress to recognize how special this hard-won agreement is and pass this locally driven legislation.” - Zach Angstead, Wild MT

”We’re all drawn to the backcountry for the same reasons: to enjoy Montana’s wild places, to connect with the natural world, and to restore our spiritual health. And we all value the Blackfoot landscape and deserve a place on it. We’re grateful to Rep. Zinke for supporting these community proposals.” - Smoke Elser, retired outfitter and guide

”This proposal reflects Montana values of being good stewards to the land and working together with broad partners to get more accomplished. Our forests and rural communities need a vibrant forest products industry, and the focus on restoration in the Blackfoot Valley will help sustain the health of both. Thank you to Rep. Zinke for moving this community proposal forward as the A River Runs Through It Act.” - Gordy Sanders, retired forester, Pyramid Mountain Lumber

”Montanans from all over come to Lincoln and the Blackfoot Valley to camp, to go fishing, to go 4 wheeling, to ride their motorcycles or to hike. So, what happens on the national forest impacts us a lot. That's really what drives our economy. This proposal was built so that no one group loses anything. We all got something out of this project. We’re happy to see Congressman Zinke carry this Montana collaboration to Washington, D.C.” - Bill Cyr, Lincoln resident and retired forester

“For motorized recreationists in the upper- Blackfoot Valley, the A River Runs Through It Act provides huge benefits. It will permanently protect important ATV and snowmobile access and authorize construction of several new trail connections. Whether you’re looking for a day-ride with your family or a multi-day backcountry loop riding experience, this bill will improve the quality of the experience for many. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for introducing this legislation.” - Russ Ehnes, President, Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association

“Powell County’s economy depends on both a strong timber industry and a growing recreation economy, and our future depends on making sure the two can thrive together. The A River Runs Through It Act strikes that balance—putting more work into our forests, providing a common-sense solution for long-standing Wilderness Study Areas and giving our communities greater certainty about the future of these lands. This is the kind of practical, locally driven solution that’s good for Powell County.” - Bill Hooker, Powell County Commissioner

“The success of our communities relies on our ability to work together and tackle hard problems. The folks in Lincoln have never shied away from the work it takes to get things done, and the proof lies in the A River Runs Through It Act. The proposal balances recreation and conservation with an eye to community wildfire protection and forest health. I am proud to support the A River Runs Through It Act and thrilled to see Rep. Zinke introduce it in the U.S. Congress. This is a big day for Montanans who don't mind rolling up their sleeves and getting things done.” - Andy Hunthausen, Lewis & Clark County Commissioner

“True collaboration requires doing the hard work up front rather than choosing the path of least resistance. Over two decades, neighbors in the Blackfoot watershed have built a plan that protects our public lands while keeping our communities viable. They have proven that local voices can successfully unite around a shared vision to protect our natural heritage while ensuring our communities thrive for generations to come. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for supporting the A River Runs Through It Act.” - Juanita Vero, Missoula County Commissioner

“The A River Runs Through It Act is a common-sense solution built by the people who know these lands best. It supports healthier forests and stronger rural economies while respecting the many ways Montanans work on and enjoy our public lands. I commend Congressman Zinke for honoring years of local work by introducing this legislation, and I encourage the rest of Montana’s delegation to help get it across the finish line.” - John Fitzpatrick, House Representative, HD 76

“This is what 25 years of refusing to give up on common ground looks like. For a generation, Montanans have kept showing up because the freedom to enjoy these public lands, the responsibility to conserve them and the obligation to pass them on to future generations are bigger than any one disagreement. We thank Congressman Zinke for recognizing the extraordinary collaboration behind this Montana-built proposal and for carrying it forward in Congress. It honors decades of work by the people of the Blackfoot and is a fitting addition to his long record of championing Montana’s public lands.” - Barb Cestero, Montana State Director, The Wilderness Society

""The A River Runs Through It Act wasn't built in Washington—it was built through a collaborative process by the people who hunt, fish and make a living on this landscape. That’s the Montana way and something we can unite behind."" - Ryan 'Cal' Callaghan, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers

“For over two decades, residents of the Blackfoot River watershed have come together to create durable, large landscape solutions that benefit all…not just a select few. For these many years this team of united Montanans with diverse interests remained banded together, for the betterment of all Montana families. The “A River Runs Through It Act” is a testament to their dogged determination to ensure local Montanans decide what happens in our backyard, not D.C. politicians. We applaud Congressman Zinke in listening, learning, and advocating for Montana families with introduction and support of this legislation, where all interest groups - and all Montanans - win.” - Keagan Zoellner, Montana State Director, Mountain Mamas

Background

The A River Runs Through It Act represents more than two decades of locally driven work over the future of public lands in the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Covering approximately 430,000 acres, the proposal brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship effort and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal, combining active forest management, timber production, wildfire mitigation, recreation, public access, and permanent conservation into a single plan shaped by local communities, sportsmen, timber interests, recreation groups, and conservation organizations.

Zinke has long worked on conservation, public access, and active management of western lands. As Secretary of the Interior, he launched the federal-state effort to improve big-game migration corridors and winter range, and since returning to Congress he has introduced the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, helped found the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, advanced legislation to improve wildlife movement and recreation access, and supported active forest management to improve forest health and sustain western communities.

###",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 jurisdictions that obstruct immigration enforcement are the weak links driving illegal immigration across the country. It is fundamentally unfair to hardworking Americans that these cities and States can harbor illegal aliens while simultaneously taking federal housing funds. We thank Rep. Downing for introducing the No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act, which finally cuts off taxpayer dollars to jurisdictions that think they are above the law.""

Grant Newman, Director of Government Relations, Immigration Accountability Project

The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act is cosponsored by:

Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-08), Rep. Pete Sessions (TX-17), Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Rep. Rich McCormick (GA-07), Rep. Scott Perry (PA-10), Rep. Michael Cloud (TX-27), Rep. Barry Moore (AL-01), Rep. Harriet Hageman (WY-At Large), Rep. Buddy Carter (GA-01), Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14), Rep. Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Rep. Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Rep. Andy Harris (MD-01), Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36), and Rep. Michael Rulli (OH-06).

Background:

According to research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, immigration from 2021 to 2024 accounted for approximately 30 percent of the increase in U.S. home prices during that period.

The No HUD Funding for Sanctuary Cities Act would establish that sanctuary jurisdictions are not eligible to receive HUD grant funding for use in those jurisdictions.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/31/icymi-daines-commemorates-35-years-of-uzbekistans-independence/,ICYMI: Daines Commemorates 35 Years of Uzbekistan’s Independence,2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines commemorated the 35th Anniversary of the Independence of Uzbekistan—read his interview with the Dunyo IA HERE.

Steve Daines: Uzbekistan’s commitment to free market principles and development of its natural resources will build a brighter future for both its people and the United States

Dunyo IA

August 29, 2026

This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the launch of the large-scale reforms of New Uzbekistan. How do you assess the outcomes of this decade of transformation and which changes in the country do you consider the most significant?

“Thanks to the leadership of President Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan has seen notable transformation over the past decade in several key areas: economic growth, strengthened relations with key international allies, and an increased standard of living. These reforms have helped position Uzbekistan as a more open and economically engaged partner, creating new opportunities for trade, investment and cooperation with the United States and other nations.”

Over the past ten years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United States has intensified considerably. Which results of this partnership do you regard as the most successful, and what joint projects or areas of cooperation should, in your opinion, become priorities for the future?

“Uzbekistan is a strategically important country, and we’ve made substantial progress in strengthening our partnership both bilaterally and within the “C5+1” framework. As we look to the future, one of theUnited States’ main priorities should be repealing the antiquated Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions, which hinder the flow of free trade between the U.S. and Central Asia. Uzbekistan is rich in critical minerals, including copper and uranium. The United States and Uzbekistan share a growing strategic interest in securing reliable supplies of critical minerals, creating an important opportunity to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen our respective supply chains. Another vital project is the successful implementation of President Trump’s TRIPP (Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity) framework agreements, which would improve regional connectivity and establish reliable trade routes to Uzbekistan.”

One of the key objectives of the reforms has been to build a more open, investment-friendly, and internationally integrated economy. In your assessment, to what extent have these transformations strengthened the confidence of the international community, investors and development partners?

“These transformations have been very successful, proven by the creation of the American-Uzbekistan Business and Investment Council during the “C5+1” Summit in November 2025. I am thankful for the leadership of President Trump, President Mirziyoyev, and co-chairs Saida Mirziyoyeva and Sergio Gor that led to the council’s creation. Bilateral trade between our two countries has crossed the $1 billion mark and I am confident that investment and partnerships will only continue to grow.”

Read the full interview in the Dunyo IA HERE.

###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/25/on-the-park-services-110th-birthday-daines-king-lead-resolution-celebrating-national-park-week/,"On the Park Service’s 110th Birthday, Daines, King Lead Resolution Celebrating National Park Week",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Angus King (I-Maine) today announced the passage of their resolution celebrating the week of August 22nd through August 30th, 2026 as “National Park Week.”

“America’s national parks are true national treasures worth protecting. I’m thrilled to commemorate this week as National Park Week with Senator King. These parks are America’s crown jewels, and we will cherish them for generations to come,” said Daines.

“From the rocky coasts of Acadia to the breathtaking canyons of Zion, America’s national parks hold some of our nation’s most treasured landscapes and inspire people from around the world by the majesty and vision of America’s best idea. As our parks continue to face serious staffing and funding challenges, National Park Week is an important reminder of our responsibility to protect these special places and support the dedicated employees who care for them. This bipartisan resolution reaffirms our commitment to preserving America’s national parks so they can be enjoyed for generations to come,” said King.

Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Christopher Coons (D-Del.), John Cornyn (R-Tex.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Tex.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Margaret Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Justice (R-W.Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Thomas Tillis (R-N.C.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined Daines and King in sponsoring the resolution.

Read the full resolution HERE.

National Park Week Theme Days

Saturday, August 22: Kickoff Saturday and Freedom 250 Grand Pix

Sunday, August 23: Safety Sunday

Monday, August 24: America in Motion Monday

Tuesday, August 25: National Park Service 110th Birthday & Fee-Free Day

Wednesday, August 26: Watch Wildlife Wednesday

Thursday, August 27: Thankful Thursday

Friday, August 28: Freedom Friday

Saturday, August 29: Staff Saturday

Sunday, August 30: Junior Ranger Day

Read more from the National Park Service HERE.

###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
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.

Building on that effort, Zinke introduced the bipartisan Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, which strengthens voluntary, state and tribal-led efforts to conserve big-game migration corridors, improve habitat connectivity and support research and mapping. RMEF hosted the original rollout of the legislation at its Missoula headquarters and praised the bill as directly aligned with its conservation mission.

Zinke and RMEF have also worked together in support of several other major conservation and public lands priorities, including the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act, the Wildlife Road Crossings Program Reauthorization Act and the Grizzly Bear State Management Act. RMEF also endorsed the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus co-founded by Zinke, furthering their work on conservation, wildlife habitat, public access and responsible land management and creating a platform for future conservation minded legislators to continue the progress made by their partnership.

###",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://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/13/icymi-daines-op-ed-in-the-washington-examiner-national-parks-are-a-gold-mine-congress-has-a-chance-to-save-them-from-crumbling/,ICYMI: Daines Op-Ed in The Washington Examiner: National parks are a gold mine. Congress has a chance to save them from crumbling.,2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner with Marcia Argust of the Pew Charitable Trusts about his bill the “America the Beautiful Act”—read it in the Washington Examiner HERE.

National parks are a gold mine. Congress has a chance to save them from crumbling.

The Washington Examiner

Senator Steve Daines, Marcia Argust

August 13, 2026

Millions of Americans are flocking to national parks this summer, enriching their lives and fueling local economies. In 2024 alone, national parks welcomed 332 million visits, and visitor spending in nearby communities generated $56.3 billion in economic output and supported more than 340,000 jobs nationwide.

But national parks and other public lands will suffer unless Congress passes the America the Beautiful Act before the end of this year.

… Thanks to public pressure around the centennial of the National Park Service — including broad public support for investing in park repairs and advocacy from thousands of organizations — Congress passed the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act, and President Donald Trump signed it into law in 2020. The statute established the National Parks and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund, directing more than $9 billion in nontaxpayer funds over five years to address priority repairs within parks and other public lands.

… The legislation to extend the LRF has strong bipartisan support. One of us, Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), is leading the effort in the Senate, working alongside Sens. Angus King (I-ME), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Mark Warner (D-VA). The America the Beautiful Act, with nearly three-quarters of the Senate as cosponsors, recently cleared the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee with support from Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT) and ranking member Martin Heinrich (D-NM).

Read the full op-ed in the Washington Examiner HERE.

###",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/11/daines-clyde-lead-letter-urging-doj-to-protect-second-amendment-rights-apply-ruling-nationwide/,"Daines, Clyde Lead Letter Urging DOJ to Protect Second Amendment Rights, Apply Ruling Nationwide",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Representative Andrew Clyde (GA-09) today sent a letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche following a decision by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas that struck down the National Firearm Act’s (NFA) registration requirements for suppressors, short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and short-barreled rifles (SBRs). The letter urges the Department of Justice to accept the court’s ruling and eliminate the remaining unconstitutional NFA requirements for all gun owners.

“The court’s opinion tracks precisely the position this Congress articulated when we passed Section 70436 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.3 The court correctly recognized that the NFA’s registration, application, and reporting requirements for short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, silencers, and AOWs have rested only on the taxing power, and that a tax set to zero can no longer support the regulatory machinery built to collect it. The court likewise rejected, correctly in our view, the Department’s arguments that these requirements could be repurposed to support the special occupational tax or salvaged under the Necessary and Proper Clause or the Commerce Clause – powers Congress never invoked in 1934 and has never since invoked for these provisions.

… We ask the DOJ to decline any appeal of the court’s decision; to immediately apply the court’s ruling nationwide to all persons, regardless of whether they are formally covered by the court’s injunction; and to promptly initiate rulemaking to rescind or amend the challenged NFA regulations as to untaxed firearms, so that this outcome is made permanent. Administering a split enforcement regime based on party status is neither workable nor a sound use of the Department’s resources, and the DOJ should not wait for the rulemaking process to conclude before bringing its practice into conformity with the court’s ruling,” they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), John Cornyn (R-Tex.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) joined Daines and Clyde in sending the letter.

Representatives Brian Babin (TX-36), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Earl Carter (GA-11), Ben Cline (VA-06), Mike Collins (GA-10), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), Eli Crane (AZ-01), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Mary Miller (IL-15), Riley Moore (WV-02), Ralph Norman (SC 05), Jimmy Patronis (FL-01), Scott Perry (PA-10), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Keith Self (TX-03), Austin Scott (GA-08), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Victoria Spartz (IN-05), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Randy Weber (TX-14), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04) also joined in sending the letter.

Statement of Support:

“Gun Owners of America worked with Congress and President Trump to eliminate the National Firearms Act tax on suppressors and short barrels—teeing up our constitutional challenge. The court just confirmed what everyone already knew: $0 taxes are invalid and the NFA is unconstitutional! GOA is grateful to Representative Clyde, Senator Daines, and all the Congressmen and Senators who are urging the Department of Justice to restore the Second Amendment by codifying GOA’s legal victory against the NFA into ATF regulations,” said Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs, Gun Owners of America

Background:

Daines lauded the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas ruling that struck down the National Firearm Act’s registration requirements for suppressors, SBSs, and SBRs- read the release HERE.

Daines has been leading efforts to eliminate the NFA’s $200 excise tax since 2024- read the release HERE. In December 2025 Daines led a letter with Representative Clyde to the U.S. Department of Justice urging them to end their defense of the NFA registration requirements in court- read it HERE.

Daines led the charge to include this provision in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which was signed into law by President Trump in July 2025. Following the bill’s passage, Second Amendment groups sued the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), arguing that the federal government lost its constitutional justification for maintaining the NFA registration requirements for suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs after Congress passed Daines’ provision zeroing out the $200 NFA excise tax on those items.

The court decision held that the NFA registration scheme for suppressors, SBSs, and SBRs is unconstitutional as applied to firearms Congress no longer taxes.

###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/07/daines-congratulates-chris-anderson-longtime-staffer-on-confirmation-to-be-u-s-ambassador-to-cambodia/,"Daines Congratulates Chris Anderson, Longtime Staffer, on Confirmation to Be U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today released the below statement congratulating Chris Anderson on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to become the next U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia. Chris has served as Daines’ National Security Advisor for the past several years.

“Cindy and I congratulate Chris on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia. Chris is exceedingly well-qualified and has an extensive background in foreign relations. He has served as my National Security Advisor for the past four years, so his confirmation today is especially significant for me and for everyone on Team Daines. We couldn’t be prouder and wish him nothing but the best in this new role!” said Daines.

Daines spoke in a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing in favor of Chris’s confirmation- watch it HERE. Read Chris’s official bio HERE.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/05/daines-applauds-court-ruling-to-protect-second-amendment-rights-eliminate-unconstitutional-firearm-registration-requirement/,"Daines Applauds Court Ruling to Protect Second Amendment Rights, Eliminate Unconstitutional Firearm Registration Requirement",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Daines Led Provision in Working Families Tax Cut to Eliminate NFA Excise Tax

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today applauded a decision by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas that struck down the National Firearm Act’s registration requirements for suppressors, short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and short-barreled rifles (SBRs).

“Today’s decision is a victory for the Second Amendment. Eliminating the NFA excise tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns was one of my biggest priorities in the Working Families Tax Cuts that President Trump signed into law last year. I’m glad to see the courts strike down the remaining unconstitutional registration requirements and recognize Congress’ intent to fully eliminate these NFA provisions,” said Daines.

Background:

Daines has been leading efforts to eliminate the NFA’s $200 excise tax since 2024- read the release HERE. In December 2025 Daines led a letter with Representative Andrew Clyde (GA-09) to the U.S. Department of Justice urging them to end their defense of the NFA registration requirements in court- read it HERE.

Daines led the charge to include this provision in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which was signed into law by President Trump in July 2025. Following the bill’s passage, Second Amendment groups sued the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), arguing that federal government lost its constitutional justification for maintaining the NFA registration requirements for suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs after Congress passed Daines’ provision zeroing out the $200 NFA excise tax on those items.

Today’s court decision held that the NFA registration scheme for suppressors, SBSs, and SBRs is unconstitutional as applied to firearms Congress no longer taxes.

###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/08/05/daines-sheehy-bill-to-support-crow-tribe-and-montana-miners-passes-senate-indian-affairs-committee/,"Daines, Sheehy Bill to Support Crow Tribe and Montana Miners Passes Senate Indian Affairs Committee",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy today announced their bill, the “Crow Revenue Act,” passed the Senate Indian Affairs Committee. The bill would provide new revenue to the Crow Tribe, ensure the longevity of the Bull Mountains Mine, help fix long-standing inholdings on the Crow Reservation, and increase access to public lands in the Bull Mountains.

“The Crow Revenue Act is a huge win for the Crow Tribe, Roundup and the surrounding communities. This bill helps the Tribe receive new revenue, supports our miners, and keeps the Roundup community’s economy thriving. I’m thrilled to see that it passed committee and is one step closer to becoming law,” said Daines.

“By resolving long-standing mineral ownership issues, the Crow Revenue Act creates a new stable source of revenue for the Crow Tribe, preserves Montana mining jobs, and expands public access to public lands. This legislation is the kind of practical, commonsense approach we need to support local communities, jobs, our economy, and our state’s energy future, and I’m glad to see it move through committee,” said Sheehy.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Background:

Daines first introduced the “Crow Revenue Act” in May 2024- read the release HERE and a one-pager on the bill HERE.

###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-introduces-the-use-sovereignty-to-reduce-rx-act/,Sheehy Introduces the Use Sovereignty to Reduce Rx Act,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Senator Tim Sheehy today introduced the Use Sovereignty to Reduce Rx Act (USTRx Act), a bill to combat unfair, foreign pharmaceutical price controls that force the American people to shoulder the cost of developing lifesaving drugs while other countries reap the benefits.

“America leads the world in developing lifesaving medicines, but for too long, foreign governments have gamed the system with price controls that force hardworking Americans to pick up the tab for these drugs. That’s not free trade – it’s freeloading. The USTRx Act will hold trading partners accountable, protect American innovation, and put our patients and taxpayers first,” said Senator Sheehy.

The United States has subsidized foreign drug prices through the export of pills and biologics fully funded by U.S. research. Foreign countries have then imposed strict price control regimes that transfer the bulk of the cost of research and development to American consumers.

A recent Special 301 report from USTR confirmed several foreign governments, including Germany and Japan, continue to use unfair policies to suppress pharmaceutical prices below fair market value and arbitrarily limit access to these lifesaving products. On June 18, 2026, USTR opened a Section 301 Investigation against Germany to determine whether persistent underpayment for innovative pharmaceutical products by Germany is unreasonable or discriminatory and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce.

The USTRx Act establishes a Chief Pharmaceutical Trade Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), increases oversight of foreign drug pricing policies, and equips the United States with tools to hold countries accountable for suppressing the value of American pharmaceutical innovation.

Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) joined Senator Sheehy in introducing the bill. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Jody Arrington (R-Texas).

Background:

The USTRx Act directs the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to:

Establish the position of Chief Pharmaceutical Trade Negotiator at USTR. The position would identify foreign price controls on drugs innovated in the U.S.

Compile and release an annual report to Congress on the policies and practices of high-income countries relating to the trade of pharmaceutical products

Submit to the Committee on Ways and Means in the House of Representatives and the Committee on Finance in the Senate a plan to respond to the policies and practices of high-income countries, which may include initiating an investigation under title III of the Trade Act of 1974",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-introduces-special-operations-forces-concealed-carry-act/,Sheehy Introduces Special Operations Forces Concealed Carry Act,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Senator Tim Sheehy today introduced the Special Operations Forces Concealed Carry Act, extending nationwide carry privileges to elite special operations veterans similar to the privileges given to trained and vetted law enforcement officers under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004. U.S. Representative Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives in April 2026.

“Our Special Operations Forces spend their careers protecting the American people with unmatched discipline, judgment, and professionalism. This bill honors that reality by giving qualified special operators the same nationwide concealed carry privileges already afforded to retired law enforcement officers. Our elite warfighters never stop serving, and this bill ensures the law reflects the trust they’ve earned through a lifetime of sacrifice,” said Senator Sheehy.

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) of 2004 established a clear national standard allowing trained and vetted law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms across state lines, eliminating the risks posed by a patchwork of conflicting state laws. Congress recognized that both active and retired officers may need to respond to violent crime or terrorism while off duty, and that they face ongoing threats from individuals they have previously encountered in the line of duty.

The Special Operations Forces Concealed Carry Act builds directly on this proven framework by extending similar nationwide carry privileges to a narrowly defined group of elite special operations veterans. These individuals have completed rigorous selection and possess firearms training that meets or exceeds professional law enforcement standards. This legislation honors their service while preserving all existing federal firearm restrictions.

Background:

The Special Operations Forces Concealed Carry Act strengthens public safety, reinforces policy consistency, and recognizes the continued readiness of highly trained veterans.

This legislation would accomplish the following:

Extends 18 U.S.C. 926C so concealed carry privileges apply to “qualified special operators” in addition to qualified retired law enforcement officers.

Requires yearly, state-standard, active-duty-level firearms qualification at the individual’s expense, plus completion of a DOJ-certified “Concealed Carry Use of Force in Society” course before carrying.

Makes carry authority contingent on honorable discharge (if applicable), continued status as a qualified special operator, sobriety, continued federal firearm eligibility, and current training; authority ends immediately if any condition fails and does not override any federal firearm restriction.

Requires DoD and VA to create a joint photo ID program within 180 days and accept service documents in the interim, and directs the Attorney General to ensure law enforcement accepts those documents within 90 days.

Clarifies that this act creates no new private right of action.",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
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://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/30/daines-cortez-masto-provision-protecting-taxpayer-privacy-rights-passes-senate-finance-committee/,"Daines, Cortez Masto Provision Protecting Taxpayer Privacy Rights Passes Senate Finance Committee",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“A Serious Crime Demands a Serious Punishment”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) today announced that their provision to protect the privacy of Americans’ taxpayer information passed the Senate Finance Committee and is one step closer to becoming law. The bill would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase criminal and civil penalties for unauthorized disclosure of taxpayer information.

“Unauthorized disclosure of taxpayer information is a serious crime that demands a more serious punishment. With passage of our bill today out of the Senate Finance Committee, we are one step closer to deterring this serious offense and breach of privacy,” said Daines.

“Today, the Senate Finance Committee voted to protect American taxpayers from bad actors. When Americans pay their taxes, they entrust the government with extremely sensitive information – getting this legislation across the finish line will help us keep that trust,” said Cortez Masto.

Read the press release from when Daines and Cortez Masto introduced the bill HERE and read the bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/30/in-the-news-bozeman-daily-chronicle-daines-behind-the-scenes-on-transferring-babcock-post-office-to-bozeman/,In the News: Bozeman Daily Chronicle: Daines behind-the-scenes on transferring Babcock Post Office to Bozeman,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines spoke with the Bozeman Daily Chronicle about the recent transfer of the Historic Bozeman Federal Building to city management. Read highlights below.

Daines behind-the-scenes on transferring Babcock Post Office to Bozeman: Federal Building’s future was years in the making, senator says

Bozeman Daily Chronicle

July 29th, 2026

Dan Astin

Montana U.S. Senator Steve Daines said efforts to address the future of the Bozeman Federal Building housing the Babcock Post Office were underway for nearly two years.

On Wednesday, Daines revealed to the Chronicle his office worked behind the scenes with city and federal officials for years on a potential transfer of the Federal Building to municipal ownership. What began as an effort for the city to obtain a large parking area adjacent to the building turned into transferring ownership of the entire complex, per Daines.

“This started nearly two years ago,” Daines said, referring to a Bozeman meeting initiated by city officials and Main Street area business leaders, originally attempting to solve a lack of downtown parking.

Daines first approached Ed Forst, administrator for the General Services Administration, the government’s real estate management arm, which later announced plans to sell the Bozeman Federal Building on July 23.

“GSA is taking decisive action to offload properties that don’t align with the government’s real estate needs,” Forst said in a news release previously emailed to the Chronicle. “Disposing of the Bozeman Federal Building will reduce costs for American taxpayers by opening the property to new investment while benefiting the community.”

No future use or owner for the property was publicly identified. Daines recalled broaching the building with Forst.

“I said, ‘We’d like to find a way to make sure that we can keep that precious ground that’s so badly needed for downtown Bozeman,’” Daines said. “This thing was worked on for about a year and a half, and then that’s when we got word just within the last two weeks that the GSA is planning to put the property under disposal status.”

Federal building disposal status is when a government-owned property is removed from the federal inventory. Via excess designation, property ownership can be transferred or it can be listed for public sale.

“The federal government is going to be open to transferring it to different ownership,” Daines said. “That ownership will be the city of Bozeman.”

Read the full article HERE.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-introduces-the-american-food-for-american-schools-act/,Sheehy Introduces the American Food for American Schools Act,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Sheehy and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced the American Food for American Schools Act to strengthen the “Buy American” requirement and ensure American-grown and American-processed food is served in school meals. U.S. Representatives James Gallagher (R-Calif.) and John Garamendi (D-Calif.) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“It doesn’t make sense for American schools to purchase imported food when the very best beef and agricultural products are produced right here at home, including in my home state of Montana. Buying U.S.-grown agricultural products not only protects the health and wellbeing of American kids, but also supports our nation’s economy, American farmers and ranchers, and small and local agricultural businesses,” said Senator Sheehy. “The American Food for American Schools Act strengthens the ‘Buy American’ requirement for schools to build a more secure domestic food chain and ensures federal policies back the producers who feed our nation, not foreign competitors.”

“Ensuring that our schools purchase as much American produce as possible is crucial to supporting our farmers and economy,” said Senator Schiff. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan and bicameral bill with Senator Sheehy and Representatives Garamendi and Gallagher.”

“Our farmers should be at the forefront as we improve school meal programs. The American Food for American Schools Act puts American-grown food on our children’s lunch trays while creating new opportunities for the farmers who feed our nation,”said Congressman Gallagher. “Northern California produces some of the highest-quality food in the world, and it is common sense to buy from our own farmers instead of importing food from foreign countries. This bipartisan bill strengthens American agriculture and gives students access to nutritious meals made with products grown right here at home.”

“California is the largest agricultural producer in the United States, providing produce for the entire country and parts of the world. Yet, school districts in our own farming communities still use taxpayer dollars to buy imported food. Some of those imported products have even been recalled due to safety concerns, when they could have been sourced locally in California,” said Congressman Garamendi. “That’s why I’m proud to once again introduce the American Food for American Schools Act, with my colleagues Congressman James Gallagher, Senator Sheehy and Senator Schiff, which would ensure that our schoolchildren are served nutritious, American-grown food produced under the strictest safety standards in the world.”

Statements of Support:

“Increasing imports of canned fruits and vegetables are one of the greatest threats to our industry given lower labor and steel costs in other parts of the world. We have also observed that fruit and vegetable imports continue to be a driving force behind our nation’s increased dependence on foreign food imports. We applaud this critical effort to empower and support our schools, parents, and American businesses with common-sense, modernized Buy America policies.” – Paul Palmby, President & CEO of Seneca Foods, speaking as a founding leader of the American Fruit & Vegetable Coalition

“Farm Bureau applauds Senators Sheehy and Schiff, and Representatives Garamendi and Gallagher, for advancing legislation that supports both American agriculture and child nutrition. By expanding access to high-quality, domestically grown food in school meal programs, this bill will help ensure students receive nutritious meals while also supporting U.S. farmers.” – Dr. John Newton, AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis

“American farmers and ranchers raise the highest quality crops and livestock in the world. Just like farmers nationwide, we here in Montana we are proud of the products we grow so we appreciate the effort to highlight the importance of delivering this healthy, delicious food to kids in our local schools and beyond. We applaud Senator Sheehy, his co-sponsors and counterparts in the House, for bringing this legislation, which will bring more of these high-quality, American raised foods to school children across the United States.” – Cyndi Johnson, Montana Farm Bureau Federation President and farmer from Conrad

Background:

The Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act of 1946 established the National School Lunch Program to improve child nutrition while supporting American agricultural products. In 1988, Congress passed a provision requiring schools participating in the program to purchase domestic food products “to the maximum extent practicable.” However, limited oversight, inconsistent reporting, and a lack of transparency have allowed schools to purchase imported food even when they could have met the domestic sourcing requirement.

The American Food for American Schools Act would strengthen the “Buy American” requirement to ensure schools build a more reliable and resilient domestic food supply chain while directing a greater share of federal school meal purchases toward American-grown and American-processed foods. This supports market opportunities for U.S. farmers, ranchers, fishermen, and food processors; bolsters rural economies; and reinforces the original purpose of the National School Lunch Actby ensuring that taxpayer-funded nutrition programs continue to invest in American agriculture.

What the bill does:

Requires school food authorities to obtain a waiver from the Department of Agriculture before purchasing most foreign food products

Expands American-made requirements to additional federal child nutrition programs beyond school lunches and breakfasts, including the Summer Food Service Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, and Special Milk Program

Increases transparency by requiring annual reporting and a publicly available database of waivers and supplier noncompliance",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/29/daines-bills-protecting-tribal-water-rights-and-infrastructure-one-step-closer-to-becoming-law/,Daines Bills Protecting Rural and Tribal Water and Infrastructure One Step Closer to Becoming Law,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that two of his water bills passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

“Access to safe water is a basic necessity, and I’m thrilled to see that my bipartisan bills improving water infrastructure in Montana have passed out of committee and are one step closer to becoming law. It’s critical that we implement commonsense solutions to water management, and I’ll continue fighting diligently to get these bills across the finish line,”said Daines.

Background:

The first bill will reauthorize the Fort Peck Dry Prairie Rural Water System. It extends authority for the Bureau of Reclamation to continue constructing essential water infrastructure in the Fort Peck Reservation and in Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, and Daniels counties from December 2026 to December 2028. The Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. Read Daines’ press release from when he introduced the bill in January 2026 HERE, and read the bill text HERE.

The second bill, the “Cooperative Watershed Management Program Reauthorization Act,” reauthorizes the Cooperative Watershed Management Program (CWMP) for four years. Read Daines’ release from when he introduced the bill in March 2026 HERE and read the bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/29/daines-msu-football-celebrate-historic-fcs-championship-at-the-white-house/,"Daines, MSU Football Celebrate Historic FCS Championship at the White House",2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines and the Montana State University football team today celebrated their historic FCS championship win with a packed day in Washington D.C. They started off the morning with an interview on NewsNation and then went to the White House to visit with President Trump. Following the White House, the team, including Coach Vigen and President Brock Tessman, were joined by Senator Daines, Senator Sheehy, Congressman Downing, and Governor Gianforte for lunch in the U.S. Capitol, and ended the day with a tour led by Daines.

“There’s no better way to celebrate the Bobcat’s historic season than by a historic visit to the White House. What a day to be a Bobcat! Every player on this team has worked incredibly hard and it’s great to see their efforts paid off. As always, I’m proud to be an MSU alum. GO CATS!” said Daines.

“This is a tremendous honor for our entire university and for the state of Montana. Forty-one years is a long time to wait, and our players, coaches and staff earned every bit of this moment through their hard work and determination all season long. We’re grateful for the opportunity to be recognized on a national stage once again,” said MSU President Brock Tessman.

“The Montana State Bobcats’ National Championship victory was a game for the history books. Watching the Bobcats compete on the national stage and secure an unforgettable one-point overtime win was an incredible moment—not just for the university, but for the entire state of Montana. It is only fitting that this championship team be recognized at the White House. I’m honored to welcome the team to our nation’s capital and join in their hard-earned celebration,” said Sheehy.

“As a proud father of a soon-to-be Bobcat alum, it is especially meaningful to welcome Montana State’s national championship football team to our nation’s capital. These players, coaches, and staff represent the discipline and character that define Montana. Congratulations to the entire Bobcat community on a championship that makes our whole state proud,” said Downing.

“The Bobcats made all of Montana proud by bringing the national championship home to Bozeman. Their thrilling overtime victory capped an unforgettable season and cemented their place in Montana sports history. It was a tremendous achievement for Montana State University, the Bozeman community and fans across Big Sky Country. The Bobcats earned every bit of this moment, and I appreciate President Trump welcoming them to the White House to celebrate their championship season. Congratulations to Coach Vigen, his staff and the entire team. Go Cats Go!” said Zinke.

“It was great to join President Trump at the White House to congratulate the national championship Bobcat football team for their hard work, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Coach Vigen and the team continue to represent Montana well on the national stage, it’s a great day to be a Bobcat!” said Governor Greg Gianforte.

Daines, Taco Dowler, and Paul Brott on NewsNation

Daines, MSU wide receiver Taco Dowler, and defensive lineman Paul Brott joined Markie Martin on NewsNation- watch the full interview HERE.

Daines, Taco Dowler, and Paul Brott on KSKY

Daines, Taco, and Paul joined Dave Wooten on KSKY radio to preview the White House visit- listen HERE.

Daines and MSU Football at the Capitol

###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
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://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehys-lunar-landing-day-act-passes-senate-unanimously/,Sheehy’s Lunar Landing Day Act Passes Senate Unanimously,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed Senator Sheehy’s Lunar Landing Day Act, which designates July 20th as Lunar Landing Day to recognize America’s leadership in space exploration and science. This legislation was co-led by Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).

“The history of the United States is made up of remarkable feats that expand the boundaries of what is believed to be possible. One such feat occurred on July 20, 1969, when American astronauts became the first humans to set foot on the Moon,” said Senator Sheehy. “As we continue to strengthen America’s space superiority with further innovation and new missions, we remember this incredible moment as one of the greatest achievements of human discovery in history. It is only right that July 20th be designated Lunar Landing Day in observance of America’s space superiority, leadership in exploration, and the individuals who made it possible. I’m grateful to my colleagues for supporting this effort to recognize American greatness and inspire our next generation.”

“On July 20th, 1969, American astronauts landed on the Moon for the first time. It’s one of our country’s greatest achievements,” said Senator Kelly. “As NASA’s Artemis program prepares to take us back to the Moon, there’s no better time to make sure that legacy is never forgotten. Designating Lunar Landing Day will honor the courage and ingenuity that made Apollo 11 possible, inspire the next generation of explorers, and remind us what we can do as a nation when we all work together.”

“On July 20, 1969, the Apollo 11 moon landing demonstrated what America can accomplish through innovation, determination and leadership,” said Senator Moran. “Designating July 20 as Lunar Landing Day honors one of our nation’s greatest achievements and the individuals who made it possible. As chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NASA, I look forward to continuing to invest in America’s space program as we work to return Americans to the surface of the Moon once again, building on the legacy of the Apollo program and bolstering U.S. leadership in space exploration.”

Background:

On July 20, 1969, American astronauts, scientists, and engineers accomplished the impossible when the Apollo 11 spaceflight landed humans on the Moon for the first time.

To recognize this incredible moment in history, the Lunar Landing Day Act designates July 20th as Lunar Landing Day by adding it to the list of patriotic and national observances codified in Title 36 of the U.S. Code. Patriotic and national observances are permanent observances established by Congress in law that set aside specific time periods to recognize, commemorate, and reflect on individuals, events, and moments of national significance.

This legislation would also encourage proclamations, activities, and educational efforts to commemorate the first successful landing of humans on the Moon on July 20, 1969, and inspire the continued leadership of the United States in space exploration and science.

If enacted, Lunar Landing Day would become the 49th patriotic and national observance. Existing observances include Constitution Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Wright Brothers Day, and Police Week. This legislation is supported by the Lunar Landing Day coalition.",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/23/daines-on-fox-business-the-democrats-war-powers-resolution-is-unconstitutional/,Daines on Fox Business: “The Democrats’ War Powers Resolution is Unconstitutional”,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Stuart Varney on Fox Business to discuss the latest on the Iran war.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on War Powers resolution:

Stuart, we always have the ability to exercise oversight. Look at yesterday, you had the Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, Dan Caine in front of the Appropriations Committee, Secretary Hegseth, Secretary Rubio, they are in routine contact with members of the U.S. Senate, so we are always engaged. I was at Vice President Vance’s residence recently, having dinner talking about Iran. So, we have lots of opportunity to issue oversight. But I think it’s unconstitutional. The Founding Fathers had very specific separation of powers. They gave Congress the purse, spending. That’s our constitutional power. They gave the President an Article II Section II, the commander in chief responsibilities. That is wisdom. You’ve got to have the commander in chief who is executing a war, not having Congress doing that. So, I think it’s unconstitutional, and I’ll be voting against it.

Daines on passing military funding:

I fully support that, Stuart. We’ve got to maintain this peace through strength posture. It’s very important. We give the U.S. military and the president all the robust options, including the support. So, I’ll support it. I think we’ve got a pretty good chance of getting that passed in the Senate.

Daines on ending the Iranian conflict:

Nobody wants to end this conflict more than President Trump. He’s executing a war at the moment to protect our children and grandchildren, to ensure this dangerous ideology, this dangerous regime never has nuclear weapons and the ability to take the world to its knees. President Trump is working hard to end the war, but there’s only one position or posture that the Iranians respect, and that’s the position of strength. They will get to a continued weakened posture, and I hope that will yield an outcome. A negotiated settlement would be the best outcome. But President Trump knows it is about peace through strength. He’ll have relentless force used against this corrupt, evil regime, until they are taken to their knees. And if there’s a deal to be made, I’m confident President Trump can make it.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-introduces-bill-to-end-h-1b-abuse-put-american-workers-first/,"Sheehy Introduces Bill to End H-1B Abuse, Put American Workers First",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy introduced the End H-1B Abuse Act of 2026 to put hardworking Americans first and protect our national security by rooting out H-1B fraud and strengthening guardrails within the program.

“The H-1B program was created to address workforce shortages for specialized, difficult-to-fill positions – not to displace qualified, hardworking Americans with cheaper, foreign labor. We shouldn’t be issuing work permits that make it easier to undercut American workers when we have the talent right here at home,” said Senator Sheehy. “My legislation, the End H-1B Abuse Act, restores the program to its original intent and puts American workers first by closing loopholes that incentivize abuse, strengthening guardrails and prioritizing our national security interests.”

Background:

The H-1B program was originally intended to provide narrow, short-term work visas allowing American employers to fill specialized positions that are otherwise difficult to staff; however, due to weak oversight and pervasive abuse, the H-1B program now functions as a large-scale labor substitution pipeline that displaces hardworking Americans instead of supplementing them. Additionally, having large numbers of foreign contract workers in sensitive sectors like artificial intelligence and defense-adjacent industries raises serious concerns about data security, insider risk, and foreign influence. In effect, the program now operates less as a safeguard for critical talent needs and more as a mechanism that weakens the domestic workforce while posing new security risks.

The End H-1B Abuse Act is a critical, proactive step to put American workers first, root out entrenched H-1B fraud, and confront the clear national security risks created by a program that has operated for years with inadequate guardrails. This legislation is supported by the Immigration Accountability Project and the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).

What the bill does:

Pauses new H-1B visas for three years then restarts the program under far tighter limits and higher standards

Codifies President Trump’s $100,000 fee per H-1B petition

Permanently replaces the random lottery in statute with a wage-based selection system and bans concurrent employment and third-party staffing-agency models

Ends “dual intent” for H-1Bs

Prevents H-class visa holders from bringing dependents

Bars federal agencies from sponsoring or employing nonimmigrant visa holders

Eliminates work authorization for foreign students and certain exchange visitors (ending Optional Practical Training-style programs)",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-sheehy-speaks-against-iran-war-powers-resolution-on-senate-floor/,WATCH: Sheehy Speaks Against Iran War Powers Resolution on Senate Floor,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Senator Tim Sheehy today delivered a floor speech against the Iran War Powers Resolution to halt U.S. operations against the Iranian regime. The video and full transcript of the senator’s remarks are below.

VIDEO:

Watch the full remarks HERE.

TRANSCRIPT:

“Thank you, Mr. President.

“Yesterday, we saw the President of the United States and many others at Dover Air Force Base presiding over a ceremony that is very sacred to those of us who served, and that is a dignified return of remains from the war zone.

“That process happens beginning in the war zone, through Dover, to the hometown of our fallen heroes. I participated in many of those ceremonies myself to include carrying friends of mine off the plane.

“One of those is on this bracelet. He was cut in half by an Iranian EFP.

“This regime that we are fighting does not care about our partisan politics. They don’t care who you voted for, who you pray to, or where you live. They want to kill all of us. And they don’t just say it, they actually do it. And they’ve been doing it for 47 years.

“This is a war of choice. The Democrats are correct. It’s a war of choice that was begun by a radical, lunatic band of terrorists that took over a beautiful nation 47 years ago, took it over with brutality, force, and savagery.

“And the second they took it over, they didn’t free their people. They didn’t unleash the largest oil reserves in the world to build schools and bridges. They took it over to murder their own people and to spread their disgusting ideology across the world. And that is exactly what they have been doing.

“They don’t just say it and talk about it. You don’t have to believe what they say. You can simply watch what they’ve done. They have attacked families, women, children, innocent people.

“They don’t just attack them and kill them. They rape them. They skin them alive on camera. They celebrate it. They honor those people who do disgusting things that we would put in jail for the rest of their lives in this country.

“And they do it for fun, and they pay them money to do it, and they’re heroes to that nation. They’ve done it to friends of mine. They’ve done it to families who’ve been in this chamber. And the fact that we sit here and listen to elected officials of this country defend these lunatics who want us all dead – they want all of you dead. They want all of us dead. They don’t want us to disappear with the snap of a finger. They want us to be raped, burned alive, and cut into pieces.

“Watch the video from October 7th. That’s what they want to happen from Maine to San Diego, from Seattle to Miami. They want this country turned into a burning husk of its former self. And you don’t have to theorize that. That’s what they do.

“From the 1983 barracks bombing, where 280 Marines were vaporized in the morning. From USS Cole to the Achille Lauro to every terrorist attack from the Houthis, Hezbollah, Hamas. These are not humanitarian freedom organizations. They are death-dealing cults, and they want all of us to die brutal deaths.

“William Buckley was abducted in 1985, an American military officer. He was skinned alive on camera by the Iranians.

“American prisoners of war who were captured, they were never called prisoners of war because they were captured by lunatic terrorists, so they were not subject to the Geneva Convention. They were captured and murdered. Power drills through their brains. This is in Iraq. These are families that have dealt with this, and they’ve never gotten a single dime. These families have never gotten restitution, and not a single president has ever stood up to them.

“Love Donald Trump or hate him, love his policies, hate ICE, love ICE, whatever, there’s never been a single president who has stood up to Iran and hit back.

“For 47 years, our troops and our families have been absorbing attack after attack after attack all over the world. And their radical ideology does not stop at the Persian Gulf. It doesn’t stop at Tel Aviv. They want to do this everywhere. It’s a global, radical ideology. And we’ve been fighting it for half a century.

“We didn’t start this war. We did not, but we will finish it. And forever wars are not popular with anybody these days. Both sides of that love to attack our forever wars. And I can promise you, being someone overseas wearing the uniform, when you’re fighting for your country, you don’t care what party’s in office. But you’re fighting to defend your country, and you turn on the news and see your elected officials stabbing you in the back, telling you that you’re failing, that you’ve failed every goal of the war, is what I just heard.

“Last time I checked, we’ve wiped these bastards out. An occasional missile strike and boats in the strait, that’s not military strength. Those are the flailings of a failing empire. Those are the flailings of a nation in collapse because they deserve it.

“So I encourage our colleagues on both sides of the aisle, whatever’s politically convenient, whatever plays well on Twitter or Facebook, think about the people who are deployed right now, standing on that wall with a loaded weapon, who have volunteered to defend our country and our way of life. Because they are there defending us in a just war.

“Because we did not start a war with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. They started it with us 47 years ago, and their attacks have gone unanswered for half a century.

“It’s time to fix this problem and make sure another generation of Americans does not have to fight this murderous, savage adversary.

“Thank you, Mr. President.”",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/22/daines-to-ferc-reduce-red-tape-build-more-hydro-and-natural-gas/,"Daines to FERC: Reduce Red Tape, Build More Hydro and Natural Gas",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing. They discussed the importance of streamlining the license and permitting processes for hydropower and natural gas.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on hydropower licensing reform:

Daines: There’s one source of energy that has bipartisan cooperation support, it’s hydropower. It’s a renewable source of energy, it’s great baseload power, it’s low cost. This week I introduced the “Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act” with Senators Risch and Murkowski. This bill makes a small but very important change to the “Federal Power Act,” because right now, resource agencies can put mandatory conditions on hydropower licenses. While FERC is the agency that grants the permits for non-federal hydropower projects, resource agencies like the Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service can set mandatory conditions on a license that FERC, you all, issue. This can also happen during a relicensing of an existing project. This process can be abused. Resource agencies can end up on a wish list of projects that have no direct connection to a hydropower dam. This bill is very simple. It requires all conditions to be directly related to a project. This just makes sense. In fact, this week I sent a letter to FERC, the Department of Interior, the Department of Ag, and the Department of Commerce asking them to initiate a rulemaking to address hydropower licensing, including mandatory conditions, under Section 4E and Section 18 of the Federal Power Act. For each of you, with 40% of the nation’s hydropower fleet being up for relicensing, 40 percent in the next four years, do you agree that we need to streamline and look for ways to simplify the hydropower licensing and relicensing process at a time when we are constrained as we look forward here? I’d just like to hear from each of you. Do you think we need to simplify and streamline it?

Commissioners: Yes, absolutely.

Daines: Chairman Swett, there are multiple large hydropower projects up for relicensing in Montana, including the Thompson Falls Dam. Will you work closely with resource agencies and push back against indirect or costly mandatory conditions imposed by agencies on existing projects?

Swett: Yes, we are spending an inordinate amount of time on hydro during this commission right now, more than this commission ever has focused on it, because it is so important.

Daines: Thank you. I mean, this ought to be the easy kind of licensing 101. There’s much more difficult and complicated issues in front of us, and thank you for your support to find ways to move this faster at time. We need more hydropower energy.

Daines: Chairman Swett, in May, President Trump signed my bill, it was Senate Bill 1020, to extend certain hydropower licenses for an additional six years. Could you give me the status of FERC’s implementation of that particular law?

Swett: Senator, I applaud your bill… We’ve received requests for extensions of construction deadlines under your statute, and we are processing them in accordance with the terms of your statute. We have not actually granted any requests under the new law yet, but that is simply a function of timing, and I believe that it is imminent.

Daines on expanding natural gas production:

Daines: I want to move to natural gas for a moment if I might. Montana recently built a brand new natural gas peaking plant in Laurel, Montana, just outside of Billings, to provide reliable and affordable electricity and maintain stability of the grid. This is the type of project we need to see installed across the United States. Unfortunately… We’re seeing long delays for permitting at the federal and even at the state level. I’ll keep working on the state level. You can help me on the federal level. Commissioner LaCerte, how do you see changes proposed by FERC, including updates to the blanket certificate program, helping to expand natural gas electricity production and leading to lower prices and a more reliable grid?

LaCerte: That’s a great question, Senator. I think the blanket programs, whether it be natural gas, whether it be hydro, I think that they’re going to allow us to focus on the hard issues so that the small issues don’t have to be litigated before us.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/22/daines-to-ustr-greer-repeal-jackson-vanik-trade-restrictions-protect-montana-mining-jobs/,"Daines to USTR Greer: Repeal Jackson-Vanik Trade Restrictions, Protect Montana Mining Jobs",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in a Senate Finance Committee hearing. They discussed repealing the Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions and the importance of countering Russian dumping of palladium and supporting Montana miners.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines and Greer discussed Jackson-Vanik:

Daines: Ambassador Greer, welcome to the committee. Good to have you here. Last November, there was a historic dinner at the White House. We had all five Central Asian presidents and their corresponding foreign ministers. On one side of the table, I was there with the President, the Vice President, Secretary Bessent, Secretary Rubio, as well as Ambassador Sergio Gor. For a historic moment, they’re in the White House as these great Central Asian countries now are developing a much closer relationship with the United States. And as you know, geopolitically, it’s such an important part of the world in a very tough neighborhood surrounded by Russia, China, Afghanistan, Iran. And as we have discussed, and by the way, one of the top issues they brought up that night at that dinner was a repeal of the antiquated Jackson-Vanik provision. It is an embarrassment the United States maintains these trade restrictions associated with Jackson-Vanik on Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and now Azerbaijan. As of late last year, Azerbaijan is now officially part of what we call the C-6. What used to be the C-5 is now Azerbaijan as we’re pulling that group together as they work with the United States. This Jackson-Vanik restriction is an ancient relic of Soviet Union days. It long ago ceased serving any useful purpose. It’s become a barrier to deepening America’s relationship with this most strategic region. And again, it was the issue they brought up with President Trump when we had dinner in November. Ambassador Greer, I know you’ve been engaged in that part of the world. Very important. Would you support the efforts to repeal these antiquated trade restrictions?

Greer: My sense is that we’ll be supportive… I think if this process goes along with these countries agreeing to open their markets to us, then that’s a complementary effort that we could support.

Daines: Yeah, and this is tied to some Jewish immigration issues from the Soviet Union days. The embarrassing part of this is that there’s three countries that would remain after we get this bill through. And by the way, Chris Murphy is my Democrat co-sponsor on this. It’s bipartisan. But the remaining countries would be Cuba, Belarus, and North Korea. And this is the embarrassing part of the Jackson-Vanik provisions. We have these countries that are working closely with us now in Central Asian and South Caucasus. And yet they’re in the same list as North Korea, Cuba, and Belarus. So, we hope we can get this done before the end of the year, and I appreciate your support on that. I know Secretary Rubio supports this in the administration as well.

Daines and Greer on stopping the flood of Russian palladium into American markets:

Daines: Last, I wanted to talk briefly on palladium. There’s three chief producers of palladium in the world. It’s Russia, South Africa, and Montana. The Russians are dumping palladium below prices here in the United States. It caused 700 workers in Montana to lose their jobs at that mine. They’re under the assault of Russian market manipulation to knock them out of business. This brazen assault on U.S. national security and hardworking Montana miners can’t be allowed to stand. Ambassador Greer, would you support taking corrective action to end Russia’s market manipulation and ensuring we get Montana miners back on the job to supply this critical mineral, made in Montana mineral, no less, and support this industry?

Greer: I am supportive. Anywhere where there’s a distorted market, we want to get those fixed.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-tim-sheehy-crazy-conspiracy-theories-are-undermining-americas-defens/,ICYMI: SENATOR TIM SHEEHY: Crazy conspiracy theories are undermining America’s defens,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Senator Tim Sheehy penned an opinion piece for FOX News highlighting Section 1217 of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which establishes the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative. The op-ed details how Section 1217 became the target of a misinformation campaign fueled by rising antisemitism and growing domestic hostility toward American power and influence on the world stage.

In case you missed it…

SENATOR TIM SHEEHY: Crazy conspiracy theories are undermining America’s defense

Senator Tim Sheehy

July 22, 2026

FOX News

The National Defense Authorization Act has long been one of the few pieces of legislation that rise above politics, typically culminating in a bipartisan show of support for our military and national defense. Each year, Congress comes together to fund our military, equip our warfighters and make clear to our adversaries that the United States remains committed to peace through strength.

This year, however, that tradition came to an end.

Instead of debating how best to strengthen America’s military, Democratic Socialists and online conspiracy theorists are choosing political theater over national security. One provision of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in particular – Section 1217, which establishes the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative – became the target of a misinformation campaign fueled by rising antisemitism and growing domestic hostility toward American power and influence on the world stage.

According to the groypers and far-left socialists behind this delusional campaign, Section 1217 somehow “merges” the U.S. military with Israel’s, places American troops under foreign command and subordinates America’s national security to another country’s interests.

While this sounds like a great plot for a novel, none of it is even remotely true.

Fact

Section 1217 builds upon decades of intelligence sharing, defense research and technology cooperation between the United States and Israel to accelerate the development of capabilities that strengthen America’s military.

Fiction

“Section 1217 merges our militaries.” No, it does not. Section 1217 does not alter America’s constitutional chain of command. It does not place a single American service member under Israeli authority.

This claim isn’t simply inaccurate – it’s absurd. And frankly, it doesn’t make one iota of strategic sense.

Israel’s security challenges are largely regional, as it fights to defend itself from hostile neighbors who seek every day to wipe the Jewish people off the map. America’s military responsibilities span every continent and ocean, maintaining a global force capable of deterring China in the Indo-Pacific, defending NATO allies in Europe, protecting freedom of navigation and responding to terrorist threats wherever they may be.

Neither nation has any interest in “merging” military commands because it would make both countries less effective, not more.

Section 1217 isn’t some secret, nefarious scheme buried in the NDAA as the anti-Israel lobby would have you believe. It’s a continuation of a defense partnership that has benefited our warfighters for decades.

For years, Israel has fought radical Islamic terrorists and hostile regimes while pioneering advances in missile defense, counter-drone technology, cyber defense, battlefield intelligence and autonomous systems. America benefits from this knowledge, just as Israel benefits from American industrial capacity, research and military leadership.

As a combat veteran, I’m familiar with a concept every warfighter understands: on the battlefield, you use every advantage available to protect your troops and accomplish the mission. Pride and bad-faith political symbolism don’t win wars. Superior technology, trusted allies and military dominance do.

That is exactly why Congress included Section 1217 in this year’s NDAA.

Artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, autonomous systems and electronic warfare are no longer tomorrow’s technology; they are deciding battles today. In Ukraine, inexpensive drones have destroyed tanks worth millions of dollars. In the Middle East, missile defense systems have intercepted massive barrages that would otherwise devastate civilian populations.

Our adversaries aren’t working alone. China invests heavily in artificial intelligence, autonomous weapons, quantum computing and next-generation military technology with one goal: overtaking the United States. Russia continues adapting through battlefield experience.

In this age of modern warfare, America cannot afford to handicap itself by refusing to work with trusted allies while our enemies freely share tactics, technology and capabilities.

The anti-Israel crowd tries to suggest Section 1217 somehow places Israel’s interests above America’s. That could not be more backwards. The provision puts our interests first with every technological breakthrough, every missile defense improvement and every advance in counter-drone capabilities that saves American lives. That’s not charity – it’s security.

As Montanans, we understand the importance of preparedness. Our state has long played a vital role in America’s national defense, from Malmstrom Air Force Base to the generations of veterans who have worn our nation’s uniform. We know deterrence isn’t built with speeches, but with capability, credibility and a military so advanced that our enemies decide not to test it.

Americans should absolutely debate foreign policy. We should debate defense spending, military priorities and America’s role on the world stage. But these days, legitimate policy disagreements have been replaced with tired antisemitic tropes dressed up as national security concerns.

Let’s be clear: conspiracies about Jewish control of America’s military have no place in a serious debate about our nation’s defense.

Our enemies don’t care whether the technology that defeats them was developed in Washington, Tel Aviv, or on the far side of the moon. They care that it works. We have a responsibility to ensure American warfighters have every possible advantage when they go into harm’s way – not to try and score political points by spreading disgusting conspiracy theories.

Section 1217 does just that by making America stronger, our military more capable, and our adversaries less likely to challenge us. That’s peace through strength.

Republican Tim Sheehy represents Montana in the United States Senate. He is a father, husband, former Navy SEAL team leader, aerial firefighter and entrepreneur. Sheehy completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a Navy SEAL officer and team leader, earning the Bronze Star with Valor for Heroism in Combat and the Purple Heart.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
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://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/21/daines-chairs-final-national-parks-subcommittee-hearing-our-national-parks-and-public-lands-have-a-special-place-in-my-heart/,Daines Chairs Final National Parks Subcommittee Hearing: “Our National Parks and Public Lands Have a Special Place in My Heart”,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today chaired his final National Parks subcommittee hearing, after a decade of serving as co-chair. In the hearing he discussed the America Battlefield Protection Program Amendment Act and the importance of preserving Montana battlefields from the Great Sioux and Nez Perce Wars.

Watch Daines’ opening remarks HERE.

Daines’ opening remarks:

Today’s hearing marks my 22nd as Chairman or Ranking Member. And as Senator King and I always say, we are co-chairs of this committee. No matter which way the gavel falls in the U.S. Senate, and we’ve seen it go both ways, Angus, we are co-chairs of this committee. And I want to thank my co-chair, Senator King, for serving alongside me for nine years. It’s truly been a pleasure. I also want to thank Senator Hirono who served as my first ranking member and former Chairmen Murkowski and Manchin and current Chairman Lee for entrusting the gavel to me. Our national parks and public lands have a special place in my own heart. If you come to my office, you’ll see the Yellowstone Conference Room. That’s not named after the Yellowstone TV show. Just to be clear, it’s named after Yellowstone National Park. It’s been a privilege to serve in this role for so many years. On today’s agenda we have 28 bills, many of which are bipartisan or have the support from the state delegation. I am excited to hear more about S.3524, the America Battlefield Protection Program Amendment Act, led by Senators McCormick and Kaine. The bill reauthorizes the National Battlefield Protection Program and expands the mission of the program to include the French and Indian War and the Mexican-American War. Under current law the Battlefield Program focuses on the Civil War and the Revolutionary War. Expanding the program will help preserve important historical sites and help remember those who lost their lives fighting on American soil. However, I believe that if we are going to expand this program to include the French and Indian War and the Mexican-American War then we should also look at expanding its scope to include the Indian Wars. With the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of the Little Bighorn last month and the 150th Anniversary of the Nez Perce Wars coming up next year, now is the time to remember these important battles and preserve them for future generations. Montana is home to numerous important battlefields from the Great Sioux and Nez Perce Wars. I look forward to working with the Department of the Interior, this committee, and Senator McCormick to include the Indian Wars in this important bill.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/21/daines-risch-murkowski-lead-efforts-to-bolster-made-in-america-hydropower/,"Daines, Risch, Murkowski Lead Efforts to Bolster Made-In-America Hydropower",2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today introduced the “Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act.” This bill will reform the Federal Power Act to reduce delays and costs of hydropower licensing. Specifically, the bill would limit Section 4 (e) and Section 18 mandatory conditioning of hydropower licenses under the Federal Power Act to those conditions that are related to “direct adverse effects” of the project.

“Hydropower is a growing source of power in both Montana and across the nation. The demand for U.S. energy is increasing every year, and we need to do everything we can to ensure we’re prepared to meet this rise in demand. These reforms will ensure the hydropower licensing process is more efficient, so we can get critical projects done in a timely manner,” said Daines.

“More than half of Idaho’s in-state electricity generation comes from hydropower, underscoring the importance of continued investment in the operation of both public and private dams. The Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act improves the relicensing process to ensure our dams continue to meet growing demand for affordable, reliable baseload power while efficiently serving our communities,” said Risch.

“Throughout my time in the Senate, I have heard the same message from Alaska’s utilities and local leaders: the hydropower relicensing process is broken. With 40 percent of our nation’s non-federal hydropower licenses set to expire by 2035, including 12 projects in Alaska, we need to address the unwarranted delays and costly federal requirements that often bear little connection to a project’s direct impacts. Those burdens make it much harder to maintain and expand one of Alaska’s most reliable sources of renewable, baseload power. By ensuring mandatory licensing conditions are tied to a project’s direct adverse effects, this legislation will provide greater regulatory certainty, reduce unnecessary costs, and help keep electricity affordable and reliable for Alaskans,” said Murkowski.

Read the bill text HERE.

The senators also wrote a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce urging support and action on these reforms. The letter urges the agencies to:

Limit mandatory conditions to those that address direct effects of a project,

Limit the scope of the project area to its immediate vicinity,

Reasonably define ‘fishway’ to clarify that prescribed structures are intended only to address direct impacts to fish passage;

Require conditions to be backed by the best available science,

Require agencies to provide a statement with any conditions that demonstrates equal consideration to the effects of the condition “on energy supply, distribution, cost, and use; flood control; navigation; water supply; and air quality (in addition to the preservation of other aspects of environmental quality),” as required in Section 33, and

Ensure that conditions are not overly burdensome or costly.

“Taking steps now to address these issues will usher in a generational shift in hydropower production, keep costs lower for consumers, build jobs, maintain reliability for the grid, and protect blackstart assets, all while continuing to protect our natural resources. We urge you to immediately initiative rulemakings at each of your agencies and look forward to working closely with you to support new and existing hydroelectric generation,” they wrote in the letter.

Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Alan Armstrong (R-Okla.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) joined Daines, Risch, and Murkowski in sending the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

Statements of Support:

“Common sense hydropower reforms mean we need to pair the permit with the project. That’s why the Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act is so important. For too long, hydropower producers have been forced to pay for wish-list items that have nothing to do with the reliable power they provide. With rising energy demand and 16,000 MW of hydropower up for license renewal over the next decade, we can’t afford to keep the status quo. I thank Senators Daines, Risch and Murkowski for taking action on this top priority, along with Rep. Cliff Bentz, who is leading this effort in the House. NHA looks forward to working closely with these water power champions to move this bill through Congress as quickly as possible.”— Matthew Allen, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs, National Hydropower Association

“Thank you Senators Daines, Risch and Murkowski for introducing the Hydropower Licensing Affordability Act. This legislation will help create greater certainty in the permitting process for our hydropower assets, while ensuring our projects maintain their environmental integrity to protect fish and wildlife. Hydropower makes up nearly 23% of our generation portfolio at NorthWestern Energy, allowing our company to meet customer demand with affordable, reliable, and carbon-free power.” – Brian Bird, President and Chief Executive Officer, NorthWestern Energy

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/16/daines-emphasizes-need-for-crypto-tax-framework-in-senate-finance-committee-hearing/,Daines Emphasizes Need for Crypto Tax Framework in Senate Finance Committee hearing,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with Francis Brooke, nominee to be Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, and Sriprakash Kothari, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury in a Senate Finance committee hearing. They discussed the need for federal regulatory framework for digital assets.

Watch Daines’ full remarks HERE.

Daines discussed the need for crypto tax framework:

Daines: Congratulations to each of the nominees here today, and thank you for the willingness to jump back in the arena and serve. In partnership with the administration, this Congress has taken historic steps to advance American leadership in digital assets. In fact, we’ve established the first federal regulatory framework for payment stablecoins through the Genius Act, and I remain hopeful that Congress will finish the work we started on digital asset market structure legislation. There’s a very important piece of the framework that is unfinished, and that’s the tax code. The current tax code forces taxpayers to apply rules written decades before blockchain technology even existed. Taxpayers deserve rules they can understand. The IRS deserves rules they can administer. And the American entrepreneurs deserve certainty that allows them to build their businesses here rather than overseas. My comprehensive digital asset tax framework that I’ve been developing over the past year would accomplish those goals. It is built around some commonsense principles. Reduce unnecessary complexity, increase compliance, protect the tax base, and keep digital asset jobs and the innovation here in the United States. This is not about giving digital assets special treatment. Where digital assets function like securities or commodities, my proposal applies familiar tax principles, including wash sale rules, constructive sale rules, and elective mark-to-market regime. Where blockchain technology creates genuinely different transactions, the proposal provides tailored rules for stablecoin payments, network fees, staking, lending, investment trusts, passive validation activity, and charitable contributions. Importantly, it pairs this commonsense relief with strong guardrails to prevent abuse. The administration has made clear that America should lead the digital asset economy. We need now, here in Congress, to finish the tax side of that ledger, of course, the jurisdiction here in the Finance Committee. Mr. Brooke, could you explain how a comprehensive framework that would reduce needless complexity apply traditional tax safeguards where appropriate and include strong anti-abuse rules could improve compliance while at the same time protecting the tax base?

Brooke: We need to make sure that the United States is the leader, that we’re the ones setting the standards.

Daines: Dr. Kothari, you’ve spent your career studying how government rules affect markets, affect capital formation, affect economic behavior. Could you tell us what the consequences might be for American competitiveness if Congress continues to leave digital asset taxpayers in businesses without clear and administrable tax rules?

Kothari: If the U.S. has to have maintained a leadership position in digital assets, digital currency, then we need a regime that is clear in terms of rules of engagement and also we have to enforce those laws.

###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/16/daines-in-senate-foreign-relations-committee-confirm-chris-anderson-as-u-s-ambassador-to-cambodia/,Daines in Senate Foreign Relations Committee: Confirm Chris Anderson as U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke in a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, where urged his colleagues to swiftly confirm Christopher Anderson, President Trump’s nominee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia. Anderson has served on Daines’ staff for more than four years.

Watch Daines’ full remarks HERE.

Daines’ opening remarks:

Today I have the honor of introducing Christopher Anderson, President Trump’s nominee for Ambassador to Cambodia. He hails from Barron, Wisconsin, a small town with a population of 3,000, where he tells me that there are more turkeys than people.

And Chris is a lot of things. He is the husband to Jen, sitting right behind him, and father of Charlotte, the 13-month-old beautiful little girl in that beautiful dress. But he’s also my national security advisor on my team. He has served in my office for over four years, where he’s led on all things related to foreign policy, defense, intelligence, cybersecurity, export control, sanctions, and veterans’ affairs.

Chris’s long career in national security began in February 2009, when following graduation from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a degree in economics, he decided to enlist in the Army. He was deployed to Afghanistan, where he conducted route clearance and led men in combat environment.

Following his service in uniform, Chris moved to Washington, D.C., where he got his first job here in the Senate, working for my colleague and his home state, Senator Ron Johnson. After two years with Senator Johnson, Chris moved over to Senator Bill Cassidy’s military legislative assistant, where he worked for three years.

Upon President Trump’s election in 2017, Chris once again answered the call to serve and took a job as senior advisor to the secretary of VA, where he was responsible for the department’s relationship with Congress.

Chris then pursued a master’s degree in project management from Penn State University. I said this specifically for the chairman’s benefit prior to joining my team. I know the chairman now understands you’re an intelligent man going to Penn State.

Chris has extensive experience dealing with foreign governments, negotiating agreements, advancing legislation, and managing personnel. He’s been one of my most trusted advisors during a tumultuous period in world history, providing steady, insightful advice that has informed much of the work I have done, including here on this committee. He’s traveled extensively across the Indo-Pacific, understands the core issues facing U.S. interests in the region.

He sits before us today as an Army veteran. a seasoned foreign relations expert who has a decade of experience working with foreign governments, a committed professional who has spent the last 17 years working in the front lines of U.S. national security. Chris embodies truly the best of American public service, answering the call time and time again, who will serve in this position with honor, with integrity, and determination.

His vast experience and dogged commitment to American interests make him uniquely qualified to serve in this ambassador post. I spent a number of hours with Secretary Rubio on Monday as we were traveling from Montana back to Washington, D.C.. I spoke about Chris to the secretary, and he specifically said the important role that he will play in Cambodia, a very strategic part of our geography at the moment with a lot of needs for the right kind of leader there on the ground. I’m certain our country will be safer, more secure, and more prosperous with him in Cambodia. And we’re going to miss having him in my office. But I know my team is incredibly proud as I am and excited about Chris’s next chapter.

Daines on U.S. relations in Southeast Asia:

Daines: Mr. Anderson, because of the Trump administration and ASEAN’s collaboration last year, we saw a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia that stopped a bloody border clash. You alluded to that in your testimony. Looking at the future, how do you see regional partnerships and forums as a platform for closer U.S. relations and regional stability across Southeast Asia?

Anderson: Thank you for that question, Senator, and thank you for the kind introduction. I think that’s a great question that honestly not only the U.S. but also our regional allies in the area are asking. Obviously, ASEAN is a significant regional partner, and I look forward to working with Ambassador Kim to really advance those priorities.

Daines on U.S.-Cambodia security cooperations:

Daines: Mr. Anderson, how do you foresee the future of U.S.-Cambodia security cooperation?

Anderson: Thank you, sir. And I can’t emphasize that this is, again, a question that our allies, specifically Five Eyes countries, are asking about the region… I think the first part of answering your question is engagement, how to lean forward into conversations with the government, and then looking forward at how to pursue those partnerships in an incremental, measured way as we match it with productivity on increasing the U.S. bilateral ties seeing things move forward together, not just pushing an investment and then hoping for change on the back end.

Daines on U.S. investments in Cambodia:

Daines: U.S. investment in Cambodia, frankly, has been limited, especially when compared to its neighbors in Vietnam and Thailand. Economic ties have been so important, such a part of driving U.S. relations in Southeast Asia, but really we haven’t quite found major success yet where you’re headed. If confirmed to Cambodia, Mr. Anderson, can you talk a little bit about why the investment climate in Cambodia has historically been difficult, as well as how you would work to bring more U.S. business investment into the country?

Anderson: Yes, thank you, sir. Top priorities for me, if confirmed, would be scam centers, economic and security cooperation, and regional frameworks.

###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
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 approximately $460 million for the MR&I water system, improvements to the Crow Irrigation Project, and hydropower development at Yellowtail Afterbay Dam.",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/15/daines-hassan-goodlander-miller-introduce-bill-to-bolster-made-in-america-hydropower/,"Daines, Hassan, Goodlander, Miller Introduce Bill to Bolster Made-In-America Hydropower",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Standardizes Review Procedures for Hydropower Licenses

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), as well as Representatives Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.-2) and Carol Miller (R-W.V.-01) today introduced bipartisan legislation to standardize the process for hydropower licenses at Army Corps of Engineers dams under Section 408 to ensure a uniform and consistent application and review process across districts.

“Hydropower is an increasingly important source of electricity in the U.S., and provides Montana’s second-largest source of electricity generation. As we prepare to meet the expected surge in demand for energy in the coming decades, we need to ensure the licensing process is fair and efficient. I’m proud to work with my bipartisan colleagues to increase Made-In-America hydropower and enact much-needed reforms,” said Daines.

“As electricity demand continues to grow, we need to make it easier to bring more affordable, reliable energy online. This bipartisan legislation will help create a more consistent and efficient process for adding hydropower generation at existing dams, support American energy production, and lower costs for families and businesses. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill,” said Hassan.

“The people of New Hampshire are paying some of the highest energy costs in the country, and hydropower is at the heart of lowering energy costs and making America the world’s clean energy superpower. Our bipartisan bill is simple: it cuts red tape and makes the rules of the road clear so that we can get reliable hydropower solutions built faster and bring prices down. From day one, I have worked across the aisle to cut energy costs, and I will keep leading the fight to build the affordable, reliable, and clean energy future New Hampshire families deserve,” said Goodlander.

“I have long advocated for an all-of-the-above approach to energy production. To ensure the United States remains the leading energy producer and we have the ability to meet rising demands, it is essential that our existing infrastructure and federal processes are streamlined and efficient. I am happy to join my colleagues in introducing this common-sense legislation to benefit the Army Corps of Engineers and our hydropower industry,” said Miller.

Read the bill text HERE.

Background:

The Section 408 licensing process for Army Corps of Engineers dams can vary from district to district with different standards and timelines for producers. Standardizing the process and timeline will ensure that much-needed generation will be added to existing non-powered dams. According to a recent Army Corps assessment, approximately three gigawatts of power could be produced at existing Army Corps non-powered dams.

Statement of Support:

“Thank you Senators Daines and Hassan for this legislation that will help create much-needed clarity on an important aspect of permitting hydropower facilities – Clean Water Act reviews. With bipartisan support, this legislation is an important showcase that clean, affordable, and reliable hydropower should be a nonpartisan issue. Hydropower makes up nearly 23 percent of our generation portfolio at NorthWestern Energy, allowing our company to meet customer demand with affordable, reliable, and carbon-free power. Legislation like these will help ensure our hydro assets can remain a significant part of our portfolio for years to come.” – Brian Bird, President and Chief Executive Officer, NorthWestern Energy

“Section 408 reform is essential to unlocking more reliable, affordable, American hydropower. For too long, developers seeking to add clean generation to existing U.S. Army Corps infrastructure have faced an unpredictable and duplicative review process that slows projects when we need all the new generation we can get. By bringing greater clarity, consistency, and accountability to Section 408 reviews, this bill will help move responsible hydropower development forward while preserving the Corps’ core mission. NHA thanks the bill’s sponsors, Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Rep. Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) and Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV) for advancing this commonsense fix and recognizing the role existing federal infrastructure can play in meeting America’s growing energy needs.” – Matthew Allen, Director of Legislative Affairs, National Hydropower Association

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/15/icymi-the-times-of-central-asia-daines-tour-signals-an-emerging-u-s-caspian-corridor-strategy/,ICYMI: The Times of Central Asia: Daines’ Tour Signals an Emerging U.S. Caspian Corridor Strategy,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines traveled to Central Asia last week- read reporting by the Times of Central Asia below.

Daines’s Tour Signals an Emerging U.S. Caspian Corridor Strategy

The Times of Central Asia

July 14, 2026

Senator Steve Daines’s July 7–9 visit to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan brought three bilateral relationships into a single, compressed Caspian itinerary. In Baku, he met President Ilham Aliyev and senior economic and foreign-policy officials; in Astana, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and representatives of government and business; and in Ashgabat, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov, and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Although official accounts treated each stop separately, the sequence suggests a regional pattern whose significance exceeds any single announcement…

…Daines’s itinerary marks an emerging corridor-centered effort aligned with the Trump administration’s broader Caspian engagement, even without a formal declaration of purpose…

…Daines’s tour gave visible momentum to an emerging U.S. strategy for connecting Central Asia and the South Caucasus, consistent with the Trump administration’s emphasis on commercially grounded partnerships. Its institutional and financial architecture remains incomplete, but the direction is increasingly clear…

…There is no single three-country framework. The relationships are advancing through bilateral charters, dialogues, commercial agreements, and high-level visits. For now, the common direction appears in the sequence and convergence of U.S. initiatives rather than in a unifying institution. Project selection, financing, and delivery remain the proper tests of Washington’s effort. A durable regional structure will emerge from those results rather than from a declaration alone.

Read the full story in the Times of Central Asia HERE.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-sheehy-sworn-into-u-s-navy-reserve-by-president-trump/,Senator Sheehy Sworn into U.S. Navy Reserve by President Trump,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday afternoon, Senator Sheehy participated in a swearing-in ceremony in the Oval Office, where President Donald J. Trump swore the senator in as a Navy Reservist.

“Fighting for our nation overseas as a Navy SEAL was one of the greatest honors of my life, and standing with my family in the Oval Office to be sworn into the Navy Reserve by President Trump was a humbling reminder that serving this country is a lifelong calling. I’m proud to continue serving both the people of Montana in the U.S. Senate and our nation in uniform, and I’ll never stop fighting for the country I love and all the brave Americans who answer the call to serve,” said Senator Sheehy.

Background:

Upon graduating from the Naval Academy in 2008, Senator Sheehy was commissioned into the U.S. Navy and completed SEAL training. He completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region.

Senator Sheehy was involved in dozens of engagements with enemy forces. After being wounded and injured in the line of duty in 2014, Senator Sheehy left active duty and started his veteran-led businesses with the vision of bringing some of the technological capability he observed during his military service to the civilian world to better protect Americans from public safety threats like wildfire.",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 populations.

###",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://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehys-bipartisan-va-home-loan-awareness-act-becomes-law/,Sheehy’s Bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act Becomes Law,2026-07-11,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Senator Tim Sheehy’s bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act has officially become law as part of the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, marking a major victory for veterans and military families across the country. The legislation, the first bill Senator Sheehy introduced in the Senate, will help ensure more veterans are informed about and able to access the VA Home Loan benefit they earned through their service.

“Our veterans earned these benefits through their service and sacrifice, and they deserve every opportunity to use them. By making sure more veterans know about the VA Home Loan program, this new law will help more military families achieve the dream of homeownership. I’m proud to see this bill become law through bipartisan cooperation, delivering a real win for those who served our nation,” said Senator Sheehy.

Background:

The VA Home Loan Awareness Act, co-led by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), aims to help more veterans take advantage of the VA Home Loan program by providing more information on the program and potential eligibility.

The VA Home Loan program is a key tool for helping veterans and their spouses achieve the American Dream. It offers veterans no down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and interest rates that are often lower than rates for conventional FHA loans. Despite these benefits, only 13 percent of veterans access the VA Home Loan program. Among veterans who don’t use the VA Home Loan program, 33 percent say they are not aware of the program.

The VA Home Loan Awareness Act will help better inform veterans of opportunities provided by the VA Home Loan program by adding a disclosure to the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA) informing veterans they may be eligible for a VA Home Loan, directing applicants to consult their lender for more information about the VA Home Loan program, and instructing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a review and report to Congress on lenders’ adoption of these URLA updates.",1,2026-07-12T07:28:31Z,2026-07-12T07:30:18Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/07/08/daines-lauds-3-million-dot-grant-to-repair-the-glacier-creek-bridge/,Daines Lauds $3 Million DOT Grant to Repair the Glacier Creek Bridge,2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Daines Sent Letter of Support for Grant in 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today applauded a recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Transportation on the “Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development” (BUILD) Grant that was awarded to Missoula County to repair the Glacier Creek Bridge in Condon.

“Big news for Missoula County- the U.S. Department of Transportation has granted over $3 million to repair the Glacier Creek Bridge in Condon. Safe and reliable infrastructure is a necessity, which is why I sent a letter to Secretary Duffy urging this action. This is a huge win and I’m grateful to see the administration prioritizing the needs of Montanans,” said Daines.

Daines wrote a letter of support for the grant in February 2026 – read it HERE.

###",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z
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 in place.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Statements of Support:

Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Rep. Tim Moore (NC-14) are original cosponsors of the bill. Supporting organizations include the American Securities Association, Bond Market Association, Financial Services Institute, Financial Technology Association, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives, Investment Advisers Association, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

American Securities Association:

""ASA applauds Rep. Downing for giving every American — not just the wealthy — the opportunity to participate in the American dream. The Informed Investor Access Act broadens investor access while preserving important investor protections that make our markets the strongest in the world."" - American Securities Association President and CEO Chris Iacovella

Bond Market Association:

“The Bond Market Association, the Washington, DC-based trade association that exclusively represents securities dealers and banks whose primary focus is the U.S. fixed income markets, fully supports Rep. Downing’s Informed Investor Access Act. By allowing individuals working with registered advisors to qualify as accredited investors, individuals would be able unlock access to more markets and securities closed to those that are unaccredited. We applaud Rep. Downing’s work on this important legislation and call on HFSC Leadership to work to advance the bill in the 119th Congress.”

Investment Advisers Association:

“The IAA applauds Congressman Downing for advancing legislation to modernize and expand the accredited investor definition, including by creating a pathway for clients of fiduciary investment advisers to qualify. Investment advisers’ fiduciary duty provides a critical investor safeguard by requiring that recommendations be made in each client’s best interest. By establishing additional pathways to accredited investor status while preserving strong investor protections, this legislation would broaden access to investment opportunities, support capital formation, and enable more Americans to participate in the growth and innovation of our economy.”

Institute for Portfolio Alternatives:

“Financial sophistication should not be measured by wealth alone. The Informed Investor Access Act modernizes the accredited investor framework by creating a responsible pathway for individuals who receive personalized investment advice or recommendations from regulated investment advisers or broker-dealers in connection with a private-market investment. This approach expands access while keeping important investor-protection standards in place. IPA is proud to support this legislation and thanks Congressman Troy Downing for his leadership in expanding investor choice, strengthening capital formation and opening more opportunity to American investors.” - Anya Coverman, President & CEO, Institute for Portfolio Alternatives

Financial Services Institute:

“Financial advisors play a critical role in helping investors evaluate opportunities and build financial plans that reflect their unique goals and risk tolerance,"" said FSI President & CEO Dale Brown. ""The Informed Investor Access Act recognizes the value of that relationship by expanding access to investment opportunities for investors who choose to work with a trusted financial advisor. We commend Rep. Downing for introducing this legislation and remain committed to advancing policies that preserve investor choice, bolster access to financial advice and help more Americans achieve long-term financial security.""

Financial Technology Association:

“Financial status shouldn’t determine access to investment opportunities,” said Penny Lee, President and CEO of the Financial Technology Association. “We strongly support Rep. Downing’s Informed Investor Access Act, which will expand the definition of an accredited investor and open up wealth-building avenues for individuals working with registered professionals.”

United States Chamber of Commerce:

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the Informed Investor Access Act, sponsored by Rep. Downing. For too long, the SEC's accredited investor framework has left millions of investors on the sidelines of private capital markets simply because they do not meet arbitrary income or net worth thresholds. This bill will broaden the definition of accredited investors to include individuals who receive investment advice from registered investment advisers and broker-dealers. Doing so would be a commonsense step that expands investor access to private markets and fosters the capital formation that drives American innovation.” – Kristen Malinconico, Executive Director, Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Background:

The current accredited investor framework relies heavily on income and net worth thresholds. This approach can exclude individuals who have financial knowledge or access to professional guidance but do not meet existing wealth-based requirements.

The Informed Investor Access Act addresses this issue by amending Section 2(a)(15) of the Securities Act of 1933 to add a new category of accredited investor for individuals receiving investment advice or recommendations from a registered investment adviser or registered broker-dealer.",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/30/icymi-daines-to-ndtv-if-countries-were-stocks-id-be-buying-india/,"ICYMI: Daines to NDTV: ‘If Countries Were Stocks, I’d Be Buying India’",2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,,0,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z
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://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/26/daines-sheehy-resolution-commemorating-150th-anniversary-of-the-battle-of-little-bighorn-passes-u-s-senate/,"Daines, Sheehy Resolution Commemorating 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Little Bighorn Passes U.S. Senate",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy announced that their resolution in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Little Bighorn near Crow Agency, Montana, passed the U.S. Senate last night.

“The Battle of Little Bighorn is one of the most significant battles in Montana’s history. I’m honored to pass this resolution to commemorate its 150th anniversary and honor all the soldiers, scouts, civilians, and warriors who died at the battle. It’s essential that we continue to share the stories of those who sacrificed and fought selflessly, and made a lasting impact on our nation’s history,” said Daines.

“The Battle of Little Bighorn remains one of the most significant and studied events in our nation’s history, and 150 years later, its legacy continues to shape our understanding of the American West. As we commemorate this anniversary, we honor the memory of all those who fought and lost their lives on this ground, while reflecting on the sacrifices, lessons, and shared history that connect us. By preserving and remembering this important chapter of our past, we ensure future generations understand its lasting impact on Montana and the United States,” said Sheehy.

Read the full resolution HERE.

###",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/25/daines-peters-introduce-resolution-designating-june-as-great-outdoors-month/,"Daines, Peters Introduce Resolution Designating June as “Great Outdoors Month”",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) today introduced a bipartisan resolution designating the month of June as “Great Outdoors Month.”

“Montana’s great outdoors have something special to offer for everyone, making our state the Last Best Place. As an outdoorsman, I’m thrilled to work with Senator Peters to celebrate the natural beauty we are blessed to have here in America. I hope folks can get out and explore everything the Treasure State has to offer,” said Daines.

“Michigan’s natural beauty is part of what makes our state so great. Whether it’s the Great Lakes, our amazing coastlines, or serene parks, there is truly something for everyone here. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution to encourage more folks to get out and enjoy the natural treasures here in Michigan and all across our great nation, and to highlight the importance of preserving these lands and waters for generations to come,” said Peters.

Read the full resolution HERE.

Statement of Support:

“Outdoor Recreation Roundtable applauds Senators Daines and Peters for once again leading this important tradition in the Senate and for their enduring commitment to growing a sustainable outdoor recreation economy for the benefit of all Americans. Great Outdoors Month is a moment to celebrate what the data makes clear: outdoor recreation is a $1.3 trillion economic engine supporting 5.2 million jobs and adding $351 million every day from recreation on federal lands and waters alone. Beyond the economics, decades of research confirm that getting outside — in urban and rural communities alike — improves health outcomes and quality of life across the board. We invite everyone to mark the occasion this month by enjoying the great outdoors,” said Jessica Turner, President, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/24/daines-commemorates-4th-anniversary-of-roe-v-wades-historic-overturn/,Daines Commemorates 4th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade’s Historic Overturn,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“We must strongly recommit to defending truth: every life has inherent dignity and deserves protection”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today introduced a resolution commemorating the fourth anniversary of the historic Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which caused the historic overturn of Roe v. Wade.

“Four years ago today was a pivotal moment in our nation’s history: the overturn of Roe v. Wade. Since that day, countless unborn lives have been saved, but there remains more work to be done, especially as pro-choice advocates push to normalize the abortion pill. As we reflect on the progress we’ve made, we must strongly recommit to defending truth: every life has inherent dignity and deserves protection,” said Daines.

Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Cornyn (R-Tex.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) joined Daines in introducing the resolution.

Read the full resolution HERE.

Daines gave a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate ahead of today’s anniversary- watch it HERE.

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehys-bipartisan-va-home-loan-awareness-act-clears-congress-headed-to-president-trumps-desk/,"Sheehy’s Bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act Clears Congress, Headed to President Trump’s Desk",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Tonight the U.S. House of Representatives advanced Senator Sheehy’s bipartisan VA Home Loan Awareness Act as part of a larger package of housing legislation, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. The VA Home Loan Awareness Act is the first piece of legislation Senator Sheehy introduced as a senator and now heads to President Trump’s desk.

“The VA Home Loan Awareness Act ensures our veterans and their families can take advantage of the benefits they rightly earned through their service and sacrifice for our nation. I’m proud to see this historic, bipartisan legislation pass both chambers of Congress and look forward to President Trump signing it into law,” said Senator Sheehy.

Background:

The VA Home Loan Awareness Act, co-led by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), aims to help more veterans take advantage of the VA Home Loan program by providing more information on the program and potential eligibility.

The VA Home Loan program is a key tool for helping veterans and their spouses achieve the American Dream. It offers veterans no down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and interest rates that are often lower than rates for conventional FHA loans. Despite these benefits, only 13 percent of veterans access the VA Home Loan program. Among veterans who don’t use the VA Home Loan program, 33 percent say they are not aware of the program.

The VA Home Loan Awareness Act will help better inform veterans of opportunities provided by the VA Home Loan program by adding a disclosure to the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA) informing veterans they may be eligible for a VA Home Loan, directing applicants to consult their lender for more information about the VA Home Loan program, and instructing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a review and report to Congress on lenders’ adoption of these URLA updates.",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/23/daines-in-senate-energy-and-natural-resources-hearing-pass-the-america-the-beautiful-act-and-delist-the-grizzly-bear/,Daines in Senate Energy and Natural Resources Hearing: Pass the America the Beautiful Act and Delist the Grizzly Bear,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with Kevin Lilly, President Trump’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks, in a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Hearing. He urged members to pass the “America the Beautiful Act” and delist the grizzly bear.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on the “America the Beautiful Act:”

Daines: I want to congratulate the nominees for your willingness to serve, also to your families who are here for their willingness to serve along. So, it is a team sport when you are involved in public service. So thanks to you all and to your families. Mr. Lilly, we had a great conversation prior to this hearing. I look forward to hearing more from you today about your priorities. Both the Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service have a large and lasting impact on the state of Montana. So I look forward to hearing how we’ll be able to work together once confirmed. Last week, this committee advanced our bipartisan “America the Beautiful Act” to fund deferred maintenance projects on federal lands, including those managed by the Fish and Wildlife Services and the National Park Service. This is a big win for conservation for the American people. I again want to thank Chairman Lee and Ranking Member Heinrich for your support. I’m grateful. We are close to getting this to the President’s desk before the 4th of July. That is our goal. I hope the Senate can pass our bill even this week, and we’ll send it to the House for their action and get this to the President’s desk as soon as possible. Mr. Lilly, after the “America the Beautiful Act” is passed into law, do you commit to working closely with the states and individual units to quickly and efficiently reduce the deferred maintenance backlog?

Lilly: Absolutely.

Daines on delisting the grizzly bear:

Daines: Mr. Lilly, the Fish and Wildlife Service is currently reviewing the Section 4D rule for grizzly bears. You knew I was going to talk about grizzly bears. Both the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide distinct population segments have been well over their recovery targets for some time now. Just to remind those who are playing at home today, the recovery target for the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is 500 bears. Our best science today says there are 1,030 bears currently in the Greater Yellowstone, over twice the recovery target. In the Northern Continental Divide, which is not too far from my great-great-great-grandmother’s homestead, when she came from Norway to the United States a long time ago, that recovery target is 800 bears. The current best science tells us they’re 1,138. I’m not sure why it’s 1,138 versus 37 or 39, but they tell me it’s 1,138. We need to celebrate the fact that this amazing species has recovered. They’re no longer endangered. Frankly, what is in danger out West are people and livestock. It is time to delist the bears, celebrate their recovery, and return the management of that species back to the respective states. It’s long past due. Mr. Lilly, do you support delisting and transitioning grizzly bear management to the states if the review shows that these populations warranty listing. And as an engineer by degree, I’m all about numbers. I’m all about objective facts, what the data tells us. The data to me is very compelling. I’d like to get your opinion.

Lilly: Yes, sir… I am very much supportive of working in any way that we can with the Secretary, through 4D rules, etcetera, in order to make this a reasonable process and a transparent one.

Daines: Thanks for that answer. I know I’m out of time. Just as a comment. I spent a lot of time with a rifle on my shoulder in the fall and spring with a spring bear hunting, as well as a lot of time backpacking, fly rods up above 10,000 feet in Montana. I can tell you anecdotally, having done this for a lifetime, I’ve never seen so many grizzly bears just out this spring and spring bear hunting. Truly, they’re everywhere. It’s an amazing species to see. And oh, by the way, when we return this responsibility to the states, the state of Montana will have a very strict control in terms of how we would hunt them and so forth to control the populations. Here’s the irony. Hunters will go after the big boars. The big boars are the number one predator of cubs. You will actually reduce grizzly bear mortality for cubs by killing the boars. You will see an increase in overall bear population for a time once we turn this population control back to the state of Montana.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/23/daines-on-senate-floor-there-is-dignity-and-value-in-every-single-life/,Daines on Senate Floor: There Is Dignity and Value in Every Single Life,2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today gave a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate, where he commemorated the 4th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization and urged his colleagues to support his bill, the “Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act.”

Watch Daines’ speech HERE.

Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you to Senator Lankford for organizing this time today.

Tomorrow, June 24th, marks a pivotal anniversary in our nation’s history. Four years ago, the Supreme Court ruled that there is no federal constitutional right to abortion, and overturned Roe v. Wade in a landmark 6-3 decision that altered the landscape of the pro-life movement forever.

Reflect for a moment on how things would be different today if the Court decided otherwise.

If the Court decided there was a national right to abortion, society’s culture of death would be more prevalent. States would be prevented from enacting pro-life laws. And as a result, millions of unborn children would’ve been killed, and countless more women would’ve experienced the trauma of losing their child.

I remember back in 2018 when I founded the Senate pro-life caucus, I had no idea how important our work would become. I had no idea that we would get the opportunity to confirm pro-life justices to the Supreme Court, including Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who became part of the majority on the Supreme Court to overturn Roe.

The pro-life movement was given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help promote a culture of life, and thanks to an incredible nationwide movement of grassroots activists, countless hearts and minds have been changed.

We cannot understate the importance of that day.

I remember I was struck by a profound truth, found in Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart.”

That’s why there is dignity and value in every single life, including the unborn, the disabled, and the aging.

Unfortunately, those beliefs are under attack by pro-abortion advocates who use a disability diagnosis to justify abortion.

Between 60 to 80 percent of babies diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted in America. It’s higher in other countries- nearly 100 percent in Denmark and Iceland.

Let that sink in. Why on earth would we ever think this is ok? To use a prenatal diagnosis as a case for abortion is discrimination at best and eugenics at worst.

It also spurs the belief that having Down syndrome makes your life less valuable, or not worth living.

Individuals with Down syndrome make meaningful contributions to society and are loved by their families and friends.

That’s why I introduced the Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act, which will ban doctors from performing abortions because the child received a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis.

The Constitution says that all individuals are endowed by our Creator with the unalienable right to life. There is no clause that says “except for individuals with down syndrome.” No clause that says “except for anyone with a disability.”

It’s clear. Every person has the right to life, and it’s our duty to protect that right and be a voice for the voiceless.

I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this bill- and for all the other pro-life legislation that my colleagues are speaking on today.

I’m confident that one day, by the grace of God, abortion will be unthinkable and every preborn child will be protected by law.

So this week as we celebrate this anniversary of the historic Dobbs decision, let’s reflect with grateful hearts on the progress we’ve made, and let’s look forward with hope to a future where every life, born and unborn, is valued.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
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 communities.

See the distribution of PILT funding in Montana by county here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-padilla-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-secure-hazard-pay-for-wildland-firefighters/,"Sheehy, Padilla Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Secure Hazard Pay for Wildland Firefighters",2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senators Tim Sheehy and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) today introduced the Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act. The bill provides hazard pay to wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers for prescribed burns and training jumps, ensuring these brave first responders are recognized with fair compensation.

“Our wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers face incredible risks to defend our communities, and for too long, they have done so without fair compensation. With the bulk of fire season on its way, this bipartisan bill ensures we pay these heroes what they deserve as they continue their dangerous work to protect families, communities, and property from the threat of catastrophic wildfire,” said Senator Sheehy.

“Wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. As wildfires become more intense and frequent, we need to recruit and retain more firefighters to maintain strong crews on the frontlines. Our bill will ensure that our brave wildland firefighters receive hazard pay for a broader range of high-risk work – delivering a long-overdue raise,” said Senator Padilla.

Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and John Curtis (R-UT) joined Sheehy and Padilla in introducing the bill.

Statements of Support:

“America’s wildland firefighters are asked to do some of the toughest and most dangerous work in the country from responding to devastating wildfires to carrying out the prescribed burns and training that help prevent future disasters. They deserve to be fairly compensated for those risks. Megafire Action is proud to support this bipartisan legislation because investing in the people who fight these fires is essential to building a more resilient future. We thank Senators Sheehy and Padilla for their leadership on this legislation and look forward to its passage.” – Matt Weiner, co-founder and CEO of Megafire Action

“Commercial aerial assets work alongside federal ground crews every day — on wildfires, on prescribed burns, and in support of smokejumper operations. Codifying hazard pay for prescribed fire duties into statute gives the workforce — and the agencies — something durable to build on. The bill’s extension of hazard pay to smokejumper training jumps is equally important. Maintaining parachute proficiency is not an administrative exercise; it is operational readiness, and it carries real risk. Compensating it accordingly is overdue. We commend Senator Sheehy and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this bill and urge swift action.” – Paul Petersen, Executive Director, United Aerial Firefighting Association

“Prescribed burns are a critical tool in active forest management, and smokejumpers play a key role in combating remote wildfires by parachuting into difficult-to-access areas. For too long, federal wildland firefighters have shouldered extraordinary risks when engaging in these critical efforts without fair recognition in their paychecks. The Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act ensures that these risks are recognized with fair compensation, and we applaud Senators Sheehy and Padilla for introducing it.” – Jeremy Craft, President, Western Fire Chiefs Association

Background:

Although firefighters receive hazard pay when responding to active wildfires, they don’t receive equivalent compensation when conducting prescribed burns, despite facing similar risks from fire, smoke, and rugged forest conditions. Likewise, hazard pay isn’t provided to smokejumpers conducting regular proficiency jumps needed to maintain readiness, even though parachuting into remote areas is inherently hazardous.

In April, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) took a strong step towards addressing these gaps, issuing a proposed rule that adds prescribed wildland fire duties as a covered activity triggering hazard pay.

The Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act would codify and build on OPM’s efforts by providing hazard pay to wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers for prescribed burns and training jumps. This bill will ensure that risks across the full range of wildfire mitigation and response activities are recognized with fair compensation – supporting the first responders that keep our communities safe.

What the bill does:

Expresses a sense of Congress that firefighters who engage in prescribed fire and smokejump training activities take on risks comparable to those in wildfire suppression and should receive hazard pay to fairly compensate these risks.

Amends 5 U.S.C. 5545 to require that duties involving the ignition, control, or suppression of a prescribed burn, and smokejumper exercises for training, proficiency, or operational purposes, receive the same pay differential as wildfire response activities.

Directs OPM to issue implementing hazard pay regulations within 90 days of enactment.",1,2026-06-23T06:27:52Z,2026-06-23T06:29:20Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/17/daines-king-america-the-beautiful-act-passes-senate-energy-committee-with-historic-bipartisan-support-heads-to-senate-floor/,"Daines, King “America the Beautiful Act” Passes Senate Energy Committee with Historic Bipartisan Support, Heads to Senate Floor",2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Angus King (I-Maine) today announced that their bill, the “America the Beautiful Act,” has passed out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and now heads to the Senate floor.

“The America the Beautiful Act is one of the greatest conservation wins of our time, and I’m thrilled to see it pass out of committee today with widespread bipartisan support. As we look forward to America’s 250th anniversary, what better way to celebrate our national parks, the crown jewels of America, than by signing America the Beautiful into law? Let’s get it to the President’s desk,” said Daines.

“People travel from across the globe to experience the natural beauty of America’s public lands. Yet, while the national parks are America’s best idea, administrations across both parties have not provided adequate funding for deferred maintenance costs. Passing the America the Beautiful Act out of committee on the anniversary of America’s 250th birthday, together with my friend Senator Daines, is a feat that shows how Congress can work together, across party lines, to pass legislation in support of our collective national treasures,” said King.

Background:

Daines introduced the America the Beautiful Act with Senator Angus King (I-Maine) in May 2025- read more HERE.The bill currently has 64 bipartisan cosponsors and counting.

###",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/11/daines-cortez-masto-introduce-bill-to-protect-american-taxpayers-privacy/,"Daines, Cortez Masto Introduce Bill to Protect American Taxpayers’ Privacy",2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) today introduced a bill to protect the privacy of American taxpayers’ information. The bill would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase criminal and civil penalties for unauthorized disclosure of taxpayer information.

“One of the IRS’s most important responsibilities is protecting the confidentiality of taxpayer information. The last thing hardworking Americans should have to worry about is their tax information being breached or leaked. I’m proud to work with Senator Cortez Masto on this bill to protect taxpayer privacy rights and crack down on criminals who try to take advantage of the system,” said Daines.

“When Americans pay their taxes, they are entrusting the government with extremely sensitive information – everything from Social Security numbers to banking details. As the IRS relies more heavily on government contractors, we need to do more to ensure they don’t mishandle taxpayer information. This bipartisan legislation will hold bad actors who put everyday Americans’ data in harm’s way accountable,” said Cortez Masto.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Background:

This bill establishes new provisions which raise the existing criminal penalty for unauthorized disclosure of returns from a maximum fine of $5,000 and up to five years imprisonment, to a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to seven years imprisonment. The bill would also establish a new felony offense for IRS contactors who willfully fail to enforce safeguards required under Sec. 6103, and establishes a maximum penalty of either a $500,000 fine, or 25 percent of the total amount obligated under all IRS contracts held by the contractor in the first fiscal year when the contractor was given access to the return information at issue, whichever is greater. The bill would also increase the minimum statutory civil damages for unauthorized disclosure from $1,000 per act to $5,000 per act.

###",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/11/daines-urges-enhanced-strategic-relationships-between-america-and-caspian-region/,Daines Urges Enhanced Strategic Relationships Between America and Caspian Region,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today gave a speech at the Caspian Policy Center’s Trans-Caspian Forum. Read his remarks as prepared for delivery below.

Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Thank you Ambassador Hoagland for that kind introduction and for your long career working to build America’s ties with the Caspian region.

Good morning everyone.

Thank you very much to the Caspian Policy Center for hosting this event.

I want to acknowledge a few of today’s participants who have been fellow champions of U.S. engagement in this critical region;

Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau has been a great advocate for Central Asia at the top of the State Department, traveling to the region last year alongside another friend of mine, Special Envoy Sergio Gor.

And visiting from the region are Hikmet Hajiyev, one of President Aliyev’s closest advisors,

Erzhan Kazikhan,President Tokayev’s Special Representative to the United States,

and Abdulais Kamilov, President Mirziyoyev’s Special Representative to the United States.

Our relationships are in good hands with you all.

Several years ago, I read Zbigniew Brzezinski’s book wherein he describes Central Asia as a wine bottle and the Caucasus as the cork.

The broader Caspian Basin has obvious geographic importance due to its position between Russia, China, and Iran, but there was also an obvious lack of engagement from the U.S.

I travelled to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and the Kyrgyz Republic in 2024.

No U.S. Senator had been to all five countries in well over a decade.

In all five countries, I met with the heads of state, and we hit it off immediately. I was struck by their message, their tone, their tenor, and how we were aligned on core values.

All five sincerely wanted to deepen their relationship with the United States because of our shared respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

I then visited the South Caucasus in May of 2025, while Armenia and Azerbaijan were locked in intense peace negotiations brokered by the Trump administration.

I was able to have frank conversations with President Aliyev and Prime Minister Pashinyan and to offer some creative solutions to some of the more intractable problems in the talks.

These were two countries that had been in steady conflict for decades earnestly trying to move toward a stable peace and to build new relations with the United States.

As I visited all these countries’ capitals, I was struck by how much they represented the best parts of our own country.

The cities were filled with young families and vibrant populations with sincere hope for the future. I realized that the United States could no longer neglect to invest in countries that so deeply wanted a relationship with the U.S. and whose friendship carried such geopolitical importance.

America’s involvement in the Caspian region represents a fundamental shift on both sides.

The countries of the region long looked north to Russia for regional leadership, a convention that the Soviet Union, and subsequently Russian Federation, abused for their own cynical purposes.

Russia made prolonged concerted efforts to maintain strife and conflict among regional states while discouraging broad based economic growth in order to maintain their regional dominance.

The United States concurrently did not prioritize relations with countries in the region despite their outreach.

In fact, the U.S. failed to convert years of counterterrorism cooperation during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan into anything resembling a long-lasting relationship.

2025 marked the end of that era.

President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and this administration’s firm commitment to pursuing the American national interest coupled with courageous leadership in Central Asia and the Caucasus has created a tremendous opportunity for a new age of engagement and friendship.

Last year brought the signing of a landmark peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan as well as the profoundly important C5+1 Summit, both events I was pleased to facilitate here in Washington.

These two events, while important in their own right, are indicative of a broader shift to a new age of American diplomacy as well as a new focus on this geostrategically critical region.

The United States, Central Asia, and the Caucasus are at last strategically aligned.

Because of this fundamental change, our relationships are at a point of such goodwill that they should last long beyond my departure from the Senate or the end of this administration.

America’s need to diversify its supply chain and expand its circle of friends coupled with Central Asia and the Caucasus’ desire to bring their countries forward into the future will drive these relationships and create mutually beneficial opportunities and economic security.

We are expanding partnerships across economic sectors, investing up and down the value chain in critical minerals and rare earths, as well as in energy, telecom, agriculture, and digital and traditional infrastructure.

We are building connections that will drive these relationships forward through strategic partnerships and development MOUs, with both private sector and government-backed investments.

These new systems will be the engine that drives these relationships forward and delivers concrete, strategically important results.

The White House, State Department, DFC, Ex-Im Bank, and Department of War, among others, will all have a role to play.

We are building momentum that will move these partnerships along the path to prosperity. Building closer relations between our countries is not simply desirable but is a strategic imperative.

These relationships must now focus on concrete deliverables, on new mines, updated infrastructure, and AI stack investment. We must focus on getting shovels in the ground or under the Caspian.

Whether it be TRIPP, critical mineral projects, energy production, telecom infrastructure, or other important initiatives.

Hopefully these projects can lead to the ultimate completion of the Caspian Interconnector to connect European-bound pipelines to Turkmenistan’s vast gas reserves, a critical project that would provide massive economic benefit to our Turkmen friends while delivering increased energy security to our allies in Europe.

This would also create a foundation and opportunity for other nations to diversify their infrastructure away from Russia and invest in both regional partners and domestic capabilities that will advance global economic security.

But we too must redouble our commitment to these partnerships.

Central Asia and Azerbaijan have for too long been subject to the outdated Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions. I am working with bipartisan colleagues in the House and the Senate to repeal this relic of the Cold War and ensure that America can make the long-term investments necessary to bring about real change.

Brezenski’s dream of uncorking Central Asia through peace in the South Caucasus is finally coming true; Central Asia for the first time will have a continuous route to the West that does not pass through Russia or Iran.

This new connection will spur greater economic partnership across the West, as well as greater intra-regional cooperation between Central Asian and the Caucasus.

Further economic integration across Central Asia and the Caucasus will serve our collective interests; creating broad-based economic growth and opportunity for our peoples and bolstering our security, integrity, and resilience.

American investment and capital comes from reliable partners who are actively invested in a project’s successful completion without complex political prerogatives or expectations.

I would be remiss if I did not also mention the outcome of this weekend’s election in Armenia; Prime Minister Pashinyan has led with courage and determination that is both admirable and necessary for his country’s future.

Despite extensive Russian election interference, the people of Armenia have granted him another mandate to lead, and I am sure that he will build even closer relations between our countries. I look forward to continuing to work with him and his team.

The years ahead will require continued courageous leadership both in the United States as well as across Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Those countries that have chosen to forge an independent future free of coercion or domination will reap the benefits of closer partnership with the United States and integration into the global economic system.

I am tremendously proud of the work done with my friends in the Trump administration as well as in the Caucasus and Central Asia to build these new relationships.

The past year has delivered countless landmark agreements between our countries that have created a roadmap for our collective future.

I am confident that the work I have been a part of has laid the necessary foundation for long-term American engagement in the Caucasus and Central Asia. But our continued success will depend on future Senators and administrations, and the support should be bipartisan.

A Central Asian official once described his region to me as a submarine; submerged between its neighbors.

This provides a unique opportunity wherein the United States can utilize its most important asset: trust.

I agree with George Schultz’s words that “trust is the coin of the realm.” Without trust, true understanding is impossible, and likewise true alignment cannot be achieved.

Because the United States brings with it the promise of peaceful friendship and mutual benefit, we can build long-term partnerships based on shared values and aspirations that will last long into the future.

And while my time left in office is limited, I like to say that I am not retiring but simply repurposing.

I look forward to continuing to work on these vital relationships and issues for the remainder of my time in office and to maintaining the same determination, commitment, and friendships in my next chapter of life.

Thank you all for your time.

###",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
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 understands the realities on the ground especially in a vast and rural state like Montana.

That is why I introduced H.R.8726, the Protecting Authority and Restoring Tools Necessary for Enforcement by Regulatory States (PARTNERS) Act of 2026.

My legislation empowers states to enforce existing federal Medicare Advantage requirements for plans operating within their borders. The PARTNERS Act directs the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate enforcement efforts with states where Medicaid Advantage organizations are licensed or operate.

Importantly, it does not create new standards or mandates for Medicare Advantage plans. It simply gives states the tools to help enforce the rules that already exist. Montana seniors and consumers deserve advocates closer to home. The PARTNERS Act will improve coordination between state and federal regulators to the benefit of Montanans.

We both understand how important the state auditor’s office is for protecting and educating Montana insurance consumers (effectively all of us), as well as how important it is to be quick and responsive especially in contrast with federal agencies when problems arise. When healthcare is at stake, we must strive to be as responsive as possible. Montanans appreciate it when their questions and concerns are heard by public servants in their own communities, not bureaucrats back in Washington.

Medicare Advantage plays an important role for many seniors. Any program serving Montana seniors must come with accountability, transparency, and proper oversight. The rules already exist; states just need the ability to enforce them.

Montanans deserve timely answers and consumer protection that is close to home and responsive to their needs. Whether in Washington or in Helena, our responsibility is the same: protect Montanans, defend consumers, and ensure the rules meant to safeguard seniors are enforced.

The PARTNERS Act is a commonsense step toward that goal.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/zinke-introduces-2026-great-american-outdoors-act-250,Zinke Introduces 2026 Great American Outdoors Act 250,2026-06-10,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,MT,Ryan K. Zinke,Z000018,zinke.house.gov,zinke,https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 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, and Bureau of Indian Education. The law has helped repair roads, bridges, campgrounds, trails, visitor centers, water systems, and other critical infrastructure while supporting local jobs and strengthening rural economies.

In Montana alone, GAOA has delivered more than $100 million in investments for public land infrastructure improvements, including road rehabilitation, water system upgrades, trail improvements, campground modernization, historic preservation projects, visitor facility enhancements, and countless projects in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. These projects have improved access and visitor experiences while helping preserve some of Montana's most iconic public lands for future generations.

GAOA 250 would:

Invest $1.9 billion over five years in national parks and public lands through foreign visitor fees, private donations, and onshore energy revenues.

Restore campgrounds, trails, boat ramps, hunting and fishing access sites, and other outdoor recreation infrastructure.

Support an estimated 72,500 jobs nationwide and generate $26.4 billion in economic activity for rural gateway communities.

Strengthen America's $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy.

Establish the new America's Legacy Restoration Fund to continue reducing deferred maintenance backlogs.

Expand opportunities for private donations and public-private partnerships.

Create dedicated opportunities for outdoor recreation and sportsmen's access projects.

Codify President Trump's foreign visitor fee policy to generate new revenue for maintenance projects.

The bill will now be referred to the House Natural Resources Committee.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-tim-sheehy-soft-on-crime-judges-need-consequences-the-jail-act-delivers/,ICYMI: SENATOR TIM SHEEHY: Soft-on-crime judges need consequences. The JAIL Act delivers,2026-06-08,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Senator Tim Sheehy penned an opinion piece for FOX News highlighting the JAIL Act, a bill that would eliminate judicial immunity for federal and state judges whose leniency towards repeat offenders leads to new violent crimes.

In case you missed it…

SENATOR TIM SHEEHY: Soft-on-crime judges need consequences. The JAIL Act delivers

Senator Tim Sheehy

June 8, 2026

FOX News

Over and over again, radical judges and government officials in liberal cities put law-abiding Americans at risk by allowing dangerous criminals to roam freely on our streets. Instead of holding criminals behind bars to protect our communities, these soft-on-crime judges release violent repeat offenders on bail, giving them the opportunity to commit more crimes.

You see it in the news nearly every week: A deranged criminal commits a violent crime against an innocent member of society, and before you know it, stories are coming out about how the offender had been arrested a dozen times previously and should never have been out on our streets in the first place.

Many remember the tragic death of Iryna Zarutska, the 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was fatally stabbed on the Charlotte, North Carolina, Blue Line train in August 2025. Decarlos Brown Jr. has been charged with her murder and also faces federal charges, but his competency to stand trial is in question. He is a man with a history of mental illness and who’d been arrested and released at least 14 times before allegedly killing Iryna, including on charges for armed robbery, felony larceny, breaking and entering and assault.

In May 2025, 22-year-old Logan Federico, a young woman studying education at South Piedmont Community College who hoped to become a teacher, was murdered during a home invasion while visiting friends in Columbia, S.C. The man who allegedly took her life, Alexander Dickey, had been previously arrested 39 times with 25 felonies.

Last September, a 19-year-old repeat offender allegedly killed a man while out on three separate bonds and on probation. Johnnie Lillie was charged with shooting and killing Jermarkus Johnson in Houston, Texas. Lillie had allegedly violated his bond at least half a dozen times after his release from jail – if on any occasion his probation or bond had been revoked, Lillie would not have been on the streets and Johnson would likely be alive today.

Earlier this year, in February, Abdul Jalloh – an illegal immigrant from Sierra Leone – was charged with murder after allegedly brutally stabbing to death a Virginia woman, Stephanie Minter, at a bus stop. He had been arrested more than 30 times, including on charges of “rape, malicious wounding, assault, drug possession, identity theft, trespassing, larceny, firing a weapon, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and pick pocketing,” according to Homeland Security.

And just in May, a man was arrested for allegedly fatally stabbing 23-year-old Alyssa Paige along the Atlanta BeltLine and beating postal worker Monique Thomas with a rock. The suspect, Jahmare Brown, had been arrested previously, including in January for battery of another female victim. He was sentenced to undergo a mental health evaluation, anger management classes, and 120 days of confinement – but records show he was released after just around 60 days in jail.

When is enough, enough? At what point do these judges learn from their past life-endangering mistakes and stop releasing dangerous violent criminals back into our communities? For the sake of justice and public safety, we cannot continue allowing radical judges to prioritize criminals over innocent Americans and our communities without consequence.

To break this devastating cycle of violent crime, we must shut the revolving door of the criminal justice system that allows repeat offenders to walk free and disregards the suffering of victims and their families. Victims, their families, and all Americans deserve true justice – not a system that minimizes violent crimes through early release, lenient bail, or lax probation.

That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to hold radical judges accountable for the often deadly consequences of their leniency towards dangerous criminals. The “Judicial Accountability for Irresponsible Leniency Act,” or JAIL Act, gets rid of judicial immunity for federal and state judges, allowing victims and their family members to sue judges and other government entities for releasing violent repeat offenders on bail should they go on to commit another violent crime.

A government’s foremost responsibility is to safeguard its people. It’s long past time for Congress and our public officials to take a stand for Americans’ safety and make the stories of violent offenders being released to commit more crimes unthinkable. Let’s pass the JAIL Act and finally implement the accountability Americans are demanding.",1,2026-06-09T06:27:37Z,2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
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 enabling multinational procurement, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, further helping generate more consistent demand for U.S.-made systems.

The legislation directs the Department of War to assess interest among allied nations, identify potential lead coordinator countries for joint purchases, recommend ways to streamline approvals and licensing, and increase the exportability of defense articles and services. It also explores ways to expand access to financing tools and accelerate sales outside traditional programs, ensuring American defense companies can respond more quickly to allied demand.

Read the full text of the bill here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/05/daines-urges-colleagues-to-support-katie-lanes-nomination-to-be-montanas-federal-judge/,Daines Urges Colleagues to Support Katie Lane’s Nomination to be Montana’s Federal Judge,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"“She will bring honor, decency, and integrity to the bench”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines gave a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate, where he urged his colleagues to vote in favor of Katie Lane’s confirmation to serve as the next judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana.

Watch Daines’ speech HERE.

Daines’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Mr. President,

Today, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of confirming Katie Lane to serve as the next Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana.

Katie attended kindergarten through 12th grade in Bozeman. We went to the same high school- we’re both Bozeman High Hawks.

She spent her childhood summers skiing, camping, and hiking, which instilled in her a deep love of the Treasure State and the values that make it the Last Best Place.

Katie went on to attend George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, where she graduated magna cum laude.

She then clerked at both the trial and appellate levels of the federal judiciary for two federal judges.

She returned to Montana to serve as Deputy Solicitor General under Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen from 2021 to 2023.

During her time in Helena, Katie worked zealously to defend Montana’s laws and challenge federal overreach.

She litigated cases in both state and federal courts on issues important to Montanans, including defending the Second Amendment, multiple land use and grazing rights cases, as well as defending Montana’s coal industry.

As Montanans know well, federal judges play a critical role in our daily lives.

For many years, we have dealt with an activist judiciary that repeatedly rules against Montana’s interests.

That’s why it’s essential we pick principled jurists who are committed to upholding the Constitution and making decisions based on the rule of law, not personal politics or viewpoints.

With this in mind, Senator Sheehy and I are confident that Katie is the right choice to serve Montana as our next federal judge.

Katie’s values are rooted in Montana and grounded in the Constitution.

Katie’s distinguished record of public service and experience in the federal and state judiciary makes her well-qualified to serve on the federal bench.

I am confident she will be fair-minded, principled, and bring honor, decency, and integrity to the bench.

I cannot recommend Katie highly enough and urge my colleagues to vote to confirm her today without delay.

###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
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 storage, secure holding areas, four emergency dispatch stations, modern communications equipment, and 9-1-1 phone systems. It would also serve as Stillwater County’s Emergency Operations Center during disasters, law enforcement incidents, and other emergencies.

Statements of Support:

Richard Cowger, Chief, Columbus Fire/Rescue, said:

“This project exemplifies responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Community Project Funding will allow Columbus Rural Fire District #3 to modernize existing facilities, preserve valuable public infrastructure, and improve emergency services without placing the full financial burden on local taxpayers. The result is a cost-effective investment that benefits both the residents of our district and taxpayers nationwide through improved public safety and long-term infrastructure sustainability. This program allows some of our local federal tax dollars to go back to work right here in our community! ”

Alan Stempel, McCone County Commissioner, said:

“McCone County appreciates Congressman Downing’s support of our application for a Courthouse Security project which will enable our county to address serious safety deficiencies identified by Sheriff Paul Skyberg and state inspectors. McCone County is unable to complete this project without federal assistance.”

Steve Riveland, Stillwater County Commissioner, said:

“This funding is significant to the success of the project to provide a safe and much more secure working environment for our law enforcement, 9-1-1 operators and emergency operations. Stillwater County is very grateful for this funding. The Stillwater County Commissioners would like to thank Representative Downing and his staff for their hard and diligent work for the citizens of Stillwater County and the great State of Montana.”

With House passage of the FY27 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, Congressman Downing will continue working to ensure these projects are signed into law.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://zinke.house.gov/media/press-releases/175-million-zinkes-infrastructure-requests-and-many-more-montana-priorities,$17.5 Million in Zinke’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, $1,000,000 – Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Phase II

Butte-Silver Bow County, $2,000,000 – Critical Minerals Extraction Advancements by Montana Tech

Sanders County, $5,000,000 – Noxon Bridge Replacement Phase II

Zinke provisions included in the bills:

THUD

Low Population Highway Infrastructure

Directs the Federal Highway Administration to ensure rural highway projects in counties under 50,000 residents receive fair consideration, even if they are not included in state transportation plans, helping small and remote communities compete for critical road safety and infrastructure funding.

Project-Based Rental Assistance

Provides $18.975 billion to renew housing assistance contracts for approximately 1.2 million families, an increase of $432 million over last year, ensuring continued stability for low-income households and seniors in rental housing, helping maintain stability in tight housing markets where rent increases have priced out many fixed-income residents.

Housing Market Support Staff

Directs HUD to closely monitor rapidly rising rental markets and dedicate staff support to communities facing housing shortages, helping local governments respond more quickly to affordability pressures. This gives smaller communities better access to federal expertise when rents spike or housing supply tightens unexpectedly. Zinke has consistently pushed for stronger HUD responsiveness to rural and mid-sized communities that often lack dedicated federal support capacity.

Rent Reporting for Affordable Housing

Creates a pilot program allowing on-time rent payments to be reported to credit agencies with tenant consent and privacy protections, helping renters build credit history and improve pathways to homeownership. This is especially helpful for working families and young renters who consistently pay rent but do not receive credit for it under traditional scoring models.

Interior

Grizzly Bear Delisting (Northern Continental Divide & Greater Yellowstone)

Directs the Interior Department to remove recovered grizzly bear populations from the endangered species list within 180 days, reflecting population recovery and returning greater management authority to state wildlife agencies. Zinke has long been a leader on this policy, submitting multiple bills and report language on the issue throughout his time in Congress. This shift is intended to give Montana and other Western states more flexibility to manage wildlife conflict, protect livestock, and maintain balanced conservation outcomes.

Opioid Task Force

Requires the Interior Department to brief Congress within 90 days on efforts to restart a drug enforcement task force focused on combating opioid and drug trafficking in tribal communities. This responds to ongoing concerns about drug trafficking routes impacting reservation communities across Montana and the West. Zinke has repeatedly emphasized the need for stronger coordination between federal, state, and tribal law enforcement to address the opioid crisis in Indian Country. As Secretary of Interior, Zinke created the Joint Opioid Reduction Task Force and has continued to work to address this issue in his time in Congress.

Cottonwood Fix

Provides a permanent legislative fix to the Cottonwood court decision by limiting when the U.S. Forest Service must reinitiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to cases involving substantial new developments or changes to forest management plans. It will reduce delays that have stalled logging and forest management projects, address backlogs, and improve wildfire response and habitat management across Montana and the West. Zinke has previously introduced similar legislation in 2016 and 2023, both of which drew bipartisan and conservation support. Recently, this fix has passed the House in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill).

National Wildlife Refuge Fund

Provides $16.2 million in funding to counties containing federal wildlife refuges to offset lost property tax revenue, helping support essential local services such as schools, roads, and emergency response. Half of western Montana counties contain National Wildlife Refuges and will receive funding from this program, helping stabilize local budgets that depend heavily on federal land payments.

Native American Ironworker Training

Funds workforce development programs that provide Native communities with training iron working as well as in advanced manufacturing and digital fabrication skills, supporting long-term economic opportunity and job growth for tribal members. The program was restarted in last years Interior appropriations bill at Zinke’s request.

Wolverines

Prohibits the use of federal funds to implement the Biden-era North American wolverine endangered species listing, following specific finding and maintaining current management approaches while further evaluation continues. This prevents unnecessary litigation and restrictions to occur in Montana’s timber harvesting forests. This prevents unnecessary litigation and regulatory uncertainty that can stall timber and land management projects in Montana’s forested regions.

CMR Bison Management

Prohibits federal funding for the introduction of bison into the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, maintaining existing land use and grazing management practices in eastern Montana. This preserves longstanding grazing agreements that many local ranchers depend on for economic stability.

Read the full text of the Interior bill here.

Read the full text of the THUD bill here.

###",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 supply chains.

Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land

Strengthens oversight of foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land by improving tracking systems and adding the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) for reviews of agricultural land transactions involving foreign adversaries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. This increases transparency and helps safeguard American farmland and food security.

Pulse Crop Health Initiative

Provides an additional $500,000 for research into the health and nutritional benefits of pulse crops, including dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans. Montana is one of the nation’s leading pulse crop producers, and this research supports market development and producer competitiveness.

Precision Livestock Management Research

Maintains funding for precision livestock management research focused on maximizing rangeland resources for beef cattle and sheep production while maintaining vegetation diversity, healthy soils, and resilient plant communities. This research is particularly important for western rangelands during fall and winter grazing seasons.

Semi-Arid West Soil Health Research

Maintains funding for soil health research across integrated cropland and rangeland systems in the semi-arid West. Research will integrate emerging sensor technologies and modeling tools to help producers better assess and manage soils while supporting public lands and livestock production.

Barley Pest Initiative

Increases funding for the Barley Pest Initiative to support research addressing major threats to sustainable and profitable barley production and utilization. Montana is one of the top barley-producing states in the country, and this research helps protect yields and strengthen agricultural markets.

Food Safety and Inspection Service

Increases resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to support frontline meat and poultry inspectors and strengthen state inspection programs. This helps maintain food safety standards while supporting livestock producers and meat processing operations.

Farm Service Agency Staffing

Increases overall funding for Farm Service Agency staffing, including county office staff, helping improve service delivery and support for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.

Read the full text of the bill here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/03/daines-and-bessent-in-senate-finance-committee-working-families-tax-cuts-bringing-economic-growth-jobs-for-american-workers-and-families/,"Daines and Bessent in Senate Finance Committee: Working Families Tax Cuts Bringing Economic Growth, Jobs for American Workers and Families",2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in a Senate Finance Committee hearing where he discussed benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts and his digital asset tax framework.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on the conservation easement settlement:

Daines: Secretary Bessent, it’s good to have you here this morning… I want to start by emphasizing how pleased I was when I saw the IRS’s settlement offer for taxpayers involved with conservation easement tax disputes. For years, I’ve been sounding the alarm here on Capitol Hill on the abusive syndicated conservation easements that falsely were claiming a charitable donation solely to turn a profit. I’m an avid outdoorsman, a guy from Montana, protecting our farmers and ranchers and championing conservation is one of my biggest priorities as I represent the state of Montana here the past 13 years. I know this is a shared priority for you in this administration, which is why I commend you for your help in implementing and enforcing this settlement. So thank you.

Daines on benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts:

Daines: I also want to thank you for your hard work because we worked together over much of the last year on the Working Family Tax Cuts Act that was passed and signed the law. We’re seeing some great results in Montana. In fact, Montanans have received an average nearly $3,600 tax cut on their tax returns this year. And about 105,000 Montana small businesses will benefit from permanent tax relief due to that twenty percent pass through deduction. And as we know, the pass-through side of the equation actually supports more jobs than the C-corp side. So we did something here that’s going to be helpful to create more jobs, and importantly, job growth and income growth here for so many American people.

Bessent: And, Senator, I have very clear recollection of you in the Cabinet Room expressing to myself, White House staff, the president, the need for permanence. So I think that that will be one of your great lasting achievements once you retire.

Daines: Secretary Bessent, thank you. And I know we both knew that permanence was an important part of the equation to remove the uncertainty that’s oftentimes found in the tax code with expiring tax provisions. And there’s enough uncertainty on Capitol Hill, sadly, that happens because of whether it’s overreaching regulations or uncertain tax policy. But to take that off the table, I think, was one of the great achievements that we faced. But thank you for your kind words. And I do think that we’re going to see the benefits of this bill for many years to come. On Capitol Hill, anytime we pass something that’s 800 pages plus in length, usually the more you dig into something, the worse it gets. Oftentimes with big pork barrel spending bills, in this case, the more you dig into that working family tax cut bill, the better it gets.

Bessent: Sir, the statistics are unbelievable. We saw at the IRS that 61 million filers filed for at least one of the signature policies, and we are seeing an industrial renaissance because of the immediate expensing for equipment, factories, and farm structures.

Daines: It’s music to our ears. It’s what we predicted would happen. You put that kind of incentive structure in place. And I also believe to think about our China strategy, having that 100 percent expensing and the R&D investment to incentivize innovation will be another lasting legacy from what we accomplished together over the course of last year. I’d like just to ask you an open-ended question around how passing that largest tax cut, or said another way, preventing the largest tax increase in American history, why by making it permanent, is that making the American taxpayer better off?

Bessent: Sir, I believe that the, as you said, giving great certainty, whether it’s to households, small business, or large business, that provides for them to create capital stock, capital spending and increased productivity, and increased productivity is what leads to higher standards of living across the country.

Daines on implementing digital taxation framework:

Daines: Last question I have is on digital assets. Digital assets have moved from the margins now more to the mainstream. It’s been clear that our tax code hasn’t kept up. We bear that responsibility now to put a tax structure in place. I’m taking the lead here in the Finance Committee. As many in this committee know, that’s why we’ve been developing a framework that could give us clearer rules for digital asset taxation. Following the passage of the GENIUS Act, digital assets are becoming more integrated in our financial system. And I believe they’re going to play a growing role in our economy with the potential to keep driving investment in the United States. The numbers speak for themselves. The total crypto market cap reached $4 trillion for the first time in history. Stablecoin transaction volume was $33 trillion, a seventy-two percent increase from 2024. The number of crypto mobile wallet users reached an all-time high, up twenty percent from last year. I do believe it’s important that we provide some clarity as well as the tax dollars, and that’s our responsibility here that I’m working on at the moment. Secretary Bessent, as the administration continues its work in digital assets, will you commit to working with Congress on implementing digital asset taxation legislation and I anticipate that will very much be a two-way street?

Bessent: I will commit to that. And tax certainty, as we’ve seen with every other industry, is the key to innovation.

###",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/03/daines-sends-letter-to-dol-urging-support-for-american-workers-and-retirees/,Daines Sends Letter to DOL Urging Support for American Workers and Retirees,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Labor Acting Secretary Sonderling expressing support for DOL’s proposed rule to implement President Trump’s Executive Order that unlocks access to investments in alternative assets for Main Street America and retirees with a 401(k) defined-contribution plan.

Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Curtis (R-Utah), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Dave McCormick (R-Penn.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined Daines in sending the letter.

“For decades, defined-benefit pension plans and other sophisticated investors have allocated to alternative assets to enhance risk adjusted returns, improve diversification, and strengthen long term portfolio resilience. However, nearly 90 million Americans saving for retirement through defined contribution plans, such as 401(k)s, have largely been excluded from these opportunities. The proposed rule would help close this gap by providing fiduciaries with clearer guidance on the prudent selection of diversified investment options…

…The proposed rule would also address the significant litigation risk that has discouraged fiduciaries from offering professionally managed investment options that include alternative assets. For years, plan fiduciaries have faced costly litigation challenging prudent investment decisions, creating a strong disincentive to offer innovative or diversified products even where doing so could benefit plan participants. The rule’s safe harbor would help reduce this risk while preserving important protections for workers and ensuring that plan sponsors remain focused on acting in the best interests of beneficiaries,” they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

Background:

Daines has been a strong supporter of expanding access to alternative assets- read his letter to President Trump urging this action HERE and his statement praising the President’s Executive Order HERE.

###",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/doj-charges-scientists-from-rocky-mountain-laboratory-with-smuggling-monkeypox-into-the-u-s/,DOJ Charges Scientists from Rocky Mountain Laboratory with Smuggling Monkeypox into the U.S.,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy today released the following statement after the Department of Justice charged two researchers — Vincent Munster and Claude Kwe — from Rocky Mountain Laboratory (RML) in Hamilton, MT, with conspiracy to smuggle monkeypox into the United States and giving false statements to federal law enforcement.

The Justice Department’s announcement comes a week after Senator Sheehy sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General T. March Bell concerning a whistleblower complaint alleging misconduct by RML and Dr. Munster. In the letter, Senator Sheehy urged thorough oversight of RML’s safety, security, and personnel management practices, as well as NIH’s protocols for employees under investigation.",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/02/daines-on-fox-business-the-iranian-regime-wont-win-a-stare-down-with-president-trump/,Daines on Fox Business: The Iranian Regime Won’t Win a Stare-Down With President Trump,2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today joined Stuart Varney on Fox Business to discuss the latest on the Iran war.

Watch the full interview HERE.

Daines on President Trump and Secretary Rubio’s leadership:

Well, first of all, one of the best decisions President Trump made was to appoint Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. I think he’s one of the best secretaries we’ve had in our nation’s history. And Marco Rubio is not afraid to wade in to solve some of the toughest problems the world faces. And certainly, what’s happening right now in Iran is one of those. President Trump and Marco Rubio are working to end a 47-year war that Iran has waged against the United States and the Western world. Let’s not forget the primary destabilizing forces surrounding Israel and affecting the West are Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, all funded by this Iranian regime. Iran sends Hezbollah a billion dollars a year, Hamas, over $100 million a year. The Houthis, millions of dollars a year. And they are all proxies of this Iranian regime. Imagine a world, Stuart, we could wake up to where the regime has changed in Iran because the people of Iran rise up and change it. An Iran that seeks peace, that wants to sign the Abraham Accords… It would be an absolute game changer for the Middle East. And I’m proud of President Trump. I think it’s a lot of people who are working hard to solve perhaps one of the toughest problems we face on the planet.

Daines on the Iranian regime:

Well, the Iranians aren’t winning. We are winning at the moment. But I would agree with the General in that they want to buy time. There’s only one thing the Iranian regime respects, and that is strength. It is peace through strength. This is why you don’t want to stare down President Trump and America because you’re going to lose that stare down. And it’s because of the incredible operation we’ve already accomplished with our U.S. military that’s brought Iran to the negotiating table. But we need to finish the job. We need to get this done.

Daines on the end of the war:

It would be opening the Strait of Hormuz and a complete surrender by this regime. That would finish the job…

…That’s something President Trump and Secretary Rubio are working on hard. They both want to see this finished as quickly as possible. So do the American people. We want to see this job finished as quickly as possible. I know he’s working virtually 24-7 to solve perhaps one of the toughest problems on the planet.

###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/06/02/daines-to-rubio-in-senate-foreign-relations-hearing-end-outdated-jackson-vanik-restrictions-unlock-strategic-access-to-central-asia/,"Daines to Rubio in Senate Foreign Relations Hearing: End Outdated Jackson-Vanik Restrictions, Unlock Strategic Access to Central Asia",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing where he discussed delivering economic prosperity through the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) framework agreement and removing the Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan:

Daines: One of the underreported successes for your diplomacy in this administration is what’s happened to the peace agreement, a landmark agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. I know, Mr. Secretary, you just were in the region most recently. A major step forward for a region long beset by conflict, nearly 40 years of a hot war. And through your leadership and President Trump’s leadership, you’ve brought true peace to an area of the world sandwiched in between Russia and Iran. It was creative thinking that led the establishment of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity as a solution to some of the stickier issues in that negotiation. The program promises to be a boon, not only for Armenia and Azerbaijan, but also many neighboring countries. As Brzezinski once said, “Talk on the Global Chessboard,” his book, that Central Asia is the wine bottle and Azerbaijan’s the cork. You uncork the wine bottle, suddenly you’ve got oil and gas and critical minerals flowing back towards the West instead of to Russia, to China, and to Iran. Mr. Secretary, can you tell us a little bit about how you plan to implement the TRIPP framework agreements and deliver major economic benefit to both the United States in a very historically troubled region?

Rubio: It really has the opportunity to revolutionize Armenia’s strategic location and become a central hub for trade in the region. It solves the issue of access that Azerbaijan cared about, and it was an irritant in their relationship. But it does much more than that. It has the ability to transform the Armenian economy in a very powerful way.

Daines: It’s remarkable, and we were there together, in fact, last August at the White House when President Aliyev of Azerbaijan, Prime Minister Pashinyan in Armenia, came to sign that agreement with President Trump’s leadership. To think a Shiite Muslim country, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, came together to sign a peace agreement, was truly a breakthrough. And so it’s an underreported story, in my opinion, Mr. Secretary. I think we need to get the story out. This is a critical geopolitical problem that has been definitely remedied by the leadership of this.

Daines on ending the outdated Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions:

Daines: I’ve been spending a lot of time over the past few years working with our friends in Central Asia, across the Caspian there, with the five Central Asian countries. Things are progressing well, thanks to your engagement and encouragement and President Trump’s. And we’re seeing a lot of fruit from last year’s C5 plus one summit that was right here in Washington. That being said… there is still a major hurdle to strengthen our ties. One of the key irritants to our friends in Azerbaijan and in Central Asia is the infamous Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions. These are Soviet-era relic restrictions. In fact, Senator Murphy and I are the co-leads on the repeal. It’s long past due that we get this changed. Mr. Secretary, is removing these restrictions a priority for you and your department and removing them have a significant impact on our relations with Central Asia?

Rubio: Yeah, it’s a detriment. We’d like to see it removed.

###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
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 Water System is one of four regional water systems in Montana. The project was designed to improve access to clean and reliable water for communities in northeastern Montana through interconnected tribal and non-tribal water systems.

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,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
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 the history of the region while serving as a symbol of strength, perseverance, and community. Like the game of baseball itself, the logo brings people together to celebrate Montana’s history and create new memories for future generations.

More than a baseball team, the Glacier Range Riders have created a place where families can gather, veterans can be honored, and lasting memories can be made. Each summer, friends and neighbors come together at the ballpark to enjoy America’s pastime, celebrate their community, and share experiences that span generations. In an age when opportunities to bring people together are increasingly important, the Range Riders have created a venue that strengthens community ties and shows the very best of Montana. Throughout the summer months, thousands gather to watch the Range Riders, making a trip to the ballpark, another memorable part of the Flathead Valley experience.

Beyond the game itself, the Glacier Range Riders have had a meaningful impact on the local economy and community. The organization has helped attract visitors to Northwest Montana, supported local businesses, and created opportunities for young athletes to engage in the sport. The team’s success demonstrates that professional sports can thrive in Montana while remaining closely connected to the people and communities they represent.”

View more photos from the event here and the full Congressional Record here.

Congressional Record honoring the Brash Rodeo and photos:

“Located in the Flathead Valley at the Majestic Valley Arena beside the historic Blue Moon Nite Club, the Brash Rodeo is deeply rooted in the community. For generations, the Blue Moon has brought people together through hospitality and entertainment, while the Brash Rodeo carries forward Montana’s western traditions in the arena just outside its doors. Together, they have become gathering places where families, friends, and visitors create lasting memories and experience the spirit of Montana.

The competitors who enter the arena represent a proud legacy of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, while the rodeo itself serves as a reminder of the skills that once defined daily life across the frontier. The Brash Rodeo helps preserve these traditions and share them with future generations. Within multiple events, teams of father-daughter duos compete, showcasing not only their skills on horseback but a deeply rooted family bond and tradition. These events and the Brash Rodeo.”

View more photos from the event here and the full Congressional Record here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sheehy-calls-for-hhs-investigation-into-alleged-misconduct-by-rocky-mountain-laboratories/,Sheehy Calls for HHS Investigation into Alleged Misconduct by Rocky Mountain Laboratories,2026-05-26,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,MT,Tim Sheehy,S001232,www.sheehy.senate.gov,sheehy,https://www.sheehy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General T. March Bell concerning a recent whistleblower complaint that became public alleging misconduct by Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, Montana. RML conducts studies on some of the world’s most dangerous diseases, meaning even small lapses could put Montana communities at risk.

The whistleblower complaint alleged improper behavior by RML employees that could threaten our national security, in addition to two incidents reported by NIH involving the “theft, loss, or release of a pathogen” in the last year. In the letter, Sen. Sheehy calls for the Inspector General’s office to conduct thorough oversight of these incidents and review RML’s safety and security practices, RML’s personnel management practices, and the NIH’s protocols for employees under investigation.

View the Senator’s letter to Inspector General Bell HERE, or read the full text below:

Dear Inspector General Bell:

Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) is a federal National Institutes of Health (NIH) research facility in Hamilton, Montana, that conducts studies on some of the world’s most dangerous infectious diseases. The seriousness of the work conducted at RML means that even small lapses can carry real risks for the staff and surrounding community. Recently, a whistleblower complaint became public alleging misconduct involving RML employees that may pose a threat to our national security. Additionally, according to NIH’s reporting, there have been two incidents involving the “theft, loss, or release of a pathogen” in the last year. Given the role of the Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General in providing independent oversight of the NIH, I urge a formal investigation into the safety, security, and personnel practices at RML.

In November 2025, a RML employee’s personal protective equipment was breached by a bite, and the employee was exposed to Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), which is a severe, tick-borne viral disease that can lead to life-threatening hemorrhages and carries a fatality rate of up to 40 percent. This biosafety incident required the exposed employee to quarantine at a specialized medical facility to monitor symptoms and prevent disease transmission. Additionally, in February 2026, a RML employee was potentially exposed to CCHF while handling laboratory mice due to a hole in their personal protective equipment.

Even more concerning are recent reports regarding Dr. Vincent Munster, a foreign-educated virologist who is a senior scientist at RML and has a history of studying and experimenting with coronaviruses, monkeypox, Ebola, and other potentially dangerous pathogens. The whistleblower complaint alleges that in January 2026, Dr. Munster and his associate – both foreign-educated scientists – traveled to Africa to perform research activities. Upon their return to the United States on January 25, 2026, Munster was detained at the Detroit International Airport after allegedly transporting vials with unknown contents in his personal luggage. It has since been confirmed that Dr. Munster was indeed detained at the airport and there is an ongoing investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The whistleblower then alleges that on January 26, 2026, RML permitted Dr. Munster and his associates to “come and go as they pleased into the facility, into the high containment BSL-4 building, and into their offices.” Despite being detained the day before, the whistleblower alleges this occurred “completely unsupervised and unrestricted.” According to the whistleblower, on January 27, 2026, RML then restricted access to the three individuals, though a “personal representative” was allowed to get their belongings. Another concern, if true, is the claim that one of Munster’s associates has since had full facility access restored.

These events raise serious questions about the safety and security procedures at RML, including NIH’s hiring and personnel management practices for scientists handling dangerous pathogens. It is critical that scientists, especially those with foreign connections, are thoroughly vetted given the potentially catastrophic impacts of their work on our nation’s health and security.

Therefore, I request that your office review:

The November 2025 and February 2026 incidents at RML, including the details of each event, the purpose of the research and the pathogens being used, and the biosafety and biosecurity procedures followed by the lab.

The adequacy of RML’s safety, security, and oversight policies, and any recommendations to strengthen policies to prevent future laboratory incidents.

RML’s personnel management practices, including background checks, oversight, and clearance processes for staff who handle high-risk pathogens or have access to sensitive materials and the facility, and any recommendations to ensure that employees placed in a position of public trust are appropriately vetted and monitored.

NIH’s protocols for employees under investigation, including facility access, employment status, and coordination with law enforcement, and any recommendations to ensure these protocols protect against potential security risks.

In light of the seriousness of these incidents and the risks posed by potentially rogue scientists, I urge your immediate attention to this matter. The Hamilton community and our nation deserve assurances that Rocky Mountain Laboratories is operating under thorough oversight, that proper safety and security protocols are being followed, and that personnel handling hazardous biological materials are being properly vetted and supervised. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,",1,2026-05-27T06:38:34Z,2026-05-27T06:40:17Z
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://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/05/21/daines-markey-resolution-honoring-may-as-national-brain-tumor-awareness-month-passes-senate/,"Daines, Markey Resolution Honoring May as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month Passes Senate",2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) announced that their resolution to designate May as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month passed the U.S. Senate last night with unanimous consent.

“I’m pleased to work with Senator Markey for the ninth year in a row to designate May as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month. This issue touches many Montanans and their families, and we must continue to raise awareness and advance brain tumor research and treatment,” said Daines.

“I am proud to join Senator Daines to once again designate May as National Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Too many families across the country grieve the loss of loved ones who suffered from a brain tumor. We must do everything we can to increase funding for brain tumor research and raise public awareness to help combat this deadly disease,” said Markey.

Read the resolution text HERE.

Background:

Daines has introduced this resolution every year since the 115th Congress and was awarded a “Congressional Champion Award” by the National Brain Tumor Society for his work to increase awareness of this important issue.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/05/20/daines-bill-to-codify-first-lady-melania-trumps-fostering-the-future-initiative-to-help-foster-youth-build-successful-careers-passes-u-s-house/,Daines Bill to Codify First Lady Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future Initiative to Help Foster Youth Build Successful Careers Passes U.S. House,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines released the below statement following the news that his bill, the “Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act,” passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Huge news- my bill to expand workforce training and career opportunities for America’s foster youth passed the U.S. House of Representatives yesterday! One of the greatest gifts that we can give our children is the opportunity to succeed, and this bill will help set our foster youth up for success by increasing access to education and workforce training needed to build a career. Next step: the Senate,” said Daines.

Background:

Daines introduced the “Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act” in April 2026- read the release HERE.

Each year, about 20,000 young adults age out of the foster care system and face significant barriers to employment, education, and housing. By their mid-20s, former foster youth earn approximately 50 percent less and have lower employment rates than their peers, underscoring the need for stronger pathways to self-sufficiency.

The John H. Chafee Foster Care Program provides support through Education and Training Vouchers (ETVs) to help foster youth pursue postsecondary education. However, the program has not kept pace with rising costs or the evolving demands of today’s workforce needs.

The Foster Youth Education and Workforce Opportunity Act would modernize the program by:

Expanding the allowable uses of ETVs to include short-term, workforce-aligned training programs registered apprenticeships, career and technical education, GED attainment, and remedial education

Increasing the maximum individual ETV award from $5,000 to $12,000 annually

Improving flexibility for states to address barriers to participation, including transportation challenges, particularly in rural communities, and by simplifying the application process.

This bipartisan legislation strengthens pathways to self-sufficiency and aligns federal support expanding access to education and training opportunities beyond a traditional college degree.

###",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2026/05/20/daines-in-senate-indian-affairs-committee-finish-fort-belknap-water-rights-settlement/,Daines in Senate Indian Affairs Committee: Finish Fort Belknap Water Rights Settlement,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today spoke with Assistant Secretary William Kirkland from the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs about the importance of water infrastructure in Montana’s tribal communities.

Watch the full exchange HERE.

Daines on settling water rights litigation for tribal communities:

Daines: Assistant Secretary Kirkland, thanks for your testimony earlier. Going back to your confirmation hearing, we discussed Montana’s final Indian water settlement, the Northern Montana Water Security Act. You mentioned, in fact, memories of hauling water across the Navajo Nation with your grandmother. You understand the challenges and the necessity of securing water rights and access in Indian country. You also committed to working with Congress to ensure the federal government upholds its trust and treaty obligations, which includes protecting water rights, and I want to make sure we hold each other accountable to that. During President Trump’s first term, his support was instrumental in enacting the Montana Water Rights Protection Act to settle the Confederate Salish and Kootenai tribes’ water claims. These are century-long fights, as you well know. Some of the toughest fights are water fights, and some of the most interesting fights gets into treaty rights as well. They recently reached a major milestone. This is going back to the Salish Kootenai that the Trump administration, Trump 45, that the president signed. We finally got the Montana Water Court’s final order approving that compact last week. This is a big win for our farmers, our ranchers, the tribe, and the federal government, and for President Trump. This action by Congress and the court now brings certainty to all water users in the region. There’s a lot of false information spread up in that part of our state. It’s just not true. And we’re grateful, working with President Trump, we got this thing signed, and the court just affirmed it in Montana again last week. Had we not gotten this done, the alternative was almost unthinkable. Without a settlement, the majority of the water rights claims in Montana would have been litigated over several decades and that’s thousands of water rights claims. And as we know, the courts are increasingly sympathetic to the treaty rights that oftentimes predate statehood. Nontribal water users would have faced unprecedented uncertainty and possibly seen diminished access and would have cost the federal government an untold amount of money. Now, the Fort Belknap, alongside the many farmers and ranchers who rely on the Milk River to make a living, want to bring the same certainty to their region. It’s the last water compact to be settled in Montana history. Assistant Secretary Kirkland, do you support the idea of settling rather than litigating Indian water rights claims?

Kirkland: Senator, the department supports the idea of settling any and all water settlement claims that we can.

Daines urges a timely completion of water rights settlements:

Daines: It’s a lot of legal fees. And then the uncertainty of losing those water rights if the litigation proceeds, the risk of losing water rights for our ag economy in a place like Montana is very real and it’s significant. And there’s a clear blueprint to getting this done. I want to work with the Trump administration to build off these past models of success. None of these are ever easy. I experienced that myself under Trump 45, like the Salish Kootenai CSKT compact, we call it. And to move forward, enact the Northern Montana Water Security Act. One thing that’s sometimes lost in translation here in Washington, in a place that gets 41 inches of rain every year, I didn’t realize what rain was all about. I know Senator Murkowski sees a lot of it in Alaska, and we envy her precipitation. But they get more rain here than in Seattle by a small amount. Because when it rains here, it rains an inch or two at a time, it seems. Where we are battling in this last water rights claim, in this last tribal rights, is an area of our state that gets 12 to 15 inches of rain a year. It’s a semi-arid environment, and that’s why water is so critical to keep things going. My distinguished colleague here from Oklahoma can nod his head because they know what it means to live in a state that doesn’t get a whole lot of rain. Montana, similarly, is a state that doesn’t get a whole lot of rain in most of it. Assistant Secretary Kirkland, time is of the essence on the issue. Can we work together and push to get this done this year?

Kirkland: Senator, I know you just recently spoke to the Secretary Bergum on this as well, and I’ll echo him that we’ll continue to work with you and the Committee on settling all active water rights.

Daines: We’re going to name a town in Montana called “Burgumville” if we get this done …This is about water security for tribal and non-tribal water users. It’s for infrastructure for Montana agriculture and certainty for future generations of Montana. These are legacy kind of decisions we can make and move forward and settle it and not put this on the backs of our children and grandchildren. The bill I have ensures long-term stability across the Hi-Line of Montana and upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility.

###",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z