Bison Advocates Challenge Yellowstone Management, Seek Environmental Review on Bison Access Beyond National Park
Neighbors Against Bison Slaughter has filed a motion asking a judge to revisit their 2019 case and compel the Forest Service to carry out an environmental impact analysis within a year. They argue that existing Yellowstone bison management, overseen by the Interagency Bison Management Plan, illegally delegates authority to nonfederal entities and restricts bison access to Montana forests outside Yellowstone. Montana officials oppose allowing bison to roam freely due to brucellosis risks, which they view as a greater threat to livestock than elk. The advocates assert that the current approach harms bison populations and tribal treaty rights.
Montana Invites Residents to Vote on New Welcome Sign Designs to Showcase State’s Spirit
In May 2025, Gov. Greg Gianforte and the Montana Department of Commerce revealed a new Montana brand logo at the Miles City Bucking Horse Sale, emphasizing the state’s people, places, and stories. They are inviting Montanans to decide on the new highway sign designs through an online vote at visitmt.com/welcome-sign, open until December 31, 2025. The vote features three design options inspired by the new brand. The existing signs, installed in 2014, are expected to be replaced with new ones across the state’s entry points in late spring, depending on weather and access.
Montana Criminal Justice Leaders Call for Reform to Address Mental Health and System Inefficiencies
Montana’s Criminal Justice Oversight Council met at UM Tuesday to address issues like behavioral health gaps and trauma among first responders. Missoula County Attorney Matt Jennings urged reforms, criticizing the costly and ineffective system of incarcerating mentally ill individuals and citing local cases costing millions. Jennings emphasized that Montana State Prison acts as the state’s largest mental health facility. Montana Board of Crime Control Rep. Shantelle Gaynor highlighted fragmented funding and oversight issues in behavioral health and victim services, calling for better data and accountability.
