Secretary Christi Jacobsen Announces New Business Milestones in October
More than 6,000 new businesses were registered in Montana during October. By mid-year, over 51,000 new businesses had already been established, and the state is now on pace to surpass the record of nearly 64,000 new business filings set in 2024.
Trump Administration Moves to Overrule State Laws Protecting Credit Reports from Medical Debt
The Trump administration is taking steps to overrule state laws that protect consumers’ credit reports from medical and other debt-related issues. The move would override Biden-era rules and regulations that allowed states to implement their own credit reporting bans.
In Montana, current law requires healthcare providers to wait at least 120 days after issuing the first bill before initiating collection actions, and they must provide a 30-day notice before doing so.
FWP and MSU Continue Researching Trout Declines in Big Hole, Ruby, and Beaverhead Rivers
Research into declining trout populations in the Big Hole, Ruby, and Beaverhead rivers continues under the joint efforts of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Montana State University, the former Big Hole River Foundation, and Save Wild Trout.
The studies aim to identify and improve conditions in tributaries and mainstem river sections that support—or have the potential to support—healthy trout populations. MSU is required to submit final reports for three Ph.D. research projects by January 1.
Judge Sides with Online Publishers in Google Ad Tech Antitrust Case
A federal judge has ruled in favor of online news publishers and advertisers who allege that Google unlawfully monopolized the digital advertising market, diverting revenue that otherwise would have gone to news outlets.
A partial summary judgment was granted for Gannett—the nation’s largest newspaper chain and owner of the Great Falls Tribune—holding Google liable for illegally monopolizing its advertising placement technology business.
Top Two Destinations
According to U.S. News & World Report, Glacier National Park was ranked the number one vacation destination in the United States for 2025, followed by Yellowstone National Park at number two.
The magazine based its rankings on surveys of travelers and travel editors. It noted that visitors often find it difficult to see everything in just two or three days—but they can always come back.
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Hot Springs School District Audit:
Officials in the Hot Springs School District have asked the Sanders County Attorney to investigate years of suspected financial misconduct by former clerk and business manager Carmen Jackson. An outside audit found more than $17,000 in questionable payments and reimbursements during the 2024–25 fiscal year.
The school board is now working to restructure the business office, implement regular financial reviews, and strengthen internal procedures to prevent future abuses.
Whitefish Hotel Expansion Proposal:
A hotel along the Whitefish River is seeking to expand by converting an office building on the same property into lodging. The Riverfront Hotel will go before the Whitefish City Council this evening at 7 p.m. in City Hall to request a conditional use permit to create nine one- to three-bedroom suites, each with full kitchens and access to the main building’s amenities.
Musselshell County Senior Center Dispute:
Musselshell County commissioners are pushing to replace the board of the Roundup Senior Center. The Musselshell County Council on Aging has not received funding from the Area II Agency on Aging since April due to allegations of misusing funds. Additional problems include reduced ride services, the suspension of Meals on Wheels, and high staff turnover.
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month:
November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Family Caregiver Month. About 7.4 million Americans, including 21,000 Montanans, are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Roughly 80% of them are cared for at home by unpaid family members and friends.
Free People Opens in Bozeman:
Free People, the bohemian-inspired clothing and lifestyle retailer, has officially opened its first store in Montana. The Bozeman location is part of the $100 million redevelopment project transforming the former Gallatin Valley Mall into Gallatin Crossing.
A subsidiary of Urban Outfitters, Inc., the company offers apparel, accessories, shoes, beauty items, and activewear for young women.
