Gianforte Announces Food Drive, Highlights Services at New Food Bank HQ in Missoula
Governor Greg Gianforte has kicked off the 5th annual food-drive competition between state agencies to see which one can collect the most food donations by the middle of the month. Last year, the Department of Commerce won, donating more than 7,500 pounds of food to the Montana Food Bank Network, which distributes groceries to roughly 330 pantries, school lunch programs, and other partners that provide food directly to individuals.
Montana Reps Who Fought REAL ID Requirements Mum as TSA Plans Enforcement with $45 Fee
For years, Montana’s congressional delegation resisted implementing federally mandated REAL ID requirements, citing concerns about privacy and government overreach. This week, the Transportation Security Administration announced it will begin charging air travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification a $45 fee starting February 1.
Fewer Than Half of Montana Primary Students Meet Proficiency Standards
Fewer than half of Montana students in grades 3 through 8 are meeting grade-level proficiency standards in language arts and math, according to the first statewide results from a new standardized assessment implemented last school year. Statewide, 43.1% of students tested at or above proficiency in language arts, while 36.9% met standards in math. The new testing format allows educators to receive student performance feedback more quickly.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Region Renamed ‘National Laboratory of the Rockies’
The Trump administration has renamed the National Renewable Energy Laboratory location in Golden, Colorado. It is now called the National Laboratory of the Rockies, following White House directives to reduce emphasis on clean energy. The facility was originally created during the 1973 oil crisis to focus on renewable energy research. The name change takes effect immediately and will appear in all official documents.
Montana Ski Town Begs Canadians to Return with Discount Passes
Since President Donald Trump launched a trade war with Canada in early 2025, Canadian tourism to the U.S. has sharply declined. At the Rooseville border crossing—the closest entry point to Kalispell—traffic from Canada fell 20% between August 2024 and August 2025. Spending by Canadian visitors in Kalispell dropped 39% over the same period, and Montana hotels reported Canadian bookings down 71%. Youth sports teams from Canada also canceled tournament trips.
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GPIA Launches Visitor Pass Program
Glacier Park International Airport has launched a new Visitor Pass Program for people without airline tickets who want to meet loved ones at terminal gates or enjoy shops and dining past the security checkpoint. Applicants must complete an online form for the specific date and time they intend to visit.
Seven Groups Apply to Open Montana Charter Schools
Seven Montana charter school hopefuls submitted applications and made presentations to the Board of Public Education this year. This marks the third year organizations have been eligible to apply, following Governor Gianforte’s signing of House Bill 549 in 2023.
Nearly $6 Million Raised for Daylis Stadium Renovation
Almost $6 million has now been raised for the renovation of Daylis Stadium in Billings, with major donors including SCHEELS—the official naming partner for the expanded track—and Underriner Automotive, naming partner for the new field-lighting system. A groundbreaking ceremony is set for December 15.
Belgrade Christmas Truck Convoy Celebrates 5th Year
Nearly 100 trucks from businesses across the Gallatin Valley will be decorated with Christmas lights for the fifth annual Belgrade Christmas Truck Convoy and Truck Village, taking place Friday at 5 p.m. at Gallatin Valley Speedway. Attendees can tour the parked lighted trucks and purchase food and beverages from onsite vendors.
Grizzlies Sign 20 New Recruits as Early Signing Period Begins
The early signing period for high school football recruits opened Wednesday, and the Montana Grizzlies moved quickly, signing 20 new players. The early period runs through Friday, followed by the regular signing window in early February.
