Montana DOJ Warns of Fake Motor Vehicle Division Text Scam
The Montana Department of Justice’s Office of Consumer Protection is warning residents about fraudulent text messages posing as the state Motor Vehicle Division. Officials say scammers are sending urgent texts demanding payment for fake fines or traffic tickets, sometimes threatening increased fees or suspended registration. The DOJ reminds Montanans that the MVD never requests payments through text links. Anyone receiving these messages should report them to the Office of Consumer Protection.
Montana Businesses Brace for New Wave of Tariff Uncertainty
Montana business leaders are warning of renewed instability following a legal battle over federal trade policy. While the Supreme Court recently struck down President Trump’s broad tariff package, the administration quickly announced plans to reimplement the levies through alternative legal channels. Montana Chamber of Commerce CEO Todd O’Hair says the “on-again, off-again” nature of these taxes makes it nearly impossible for local agricultural and manufacturing sectors to plan for the future. With the state’s heavy reliance on international exports, O’Hair notes that many local companies may soon be forced to pass these fluctuating costs directly to consumers.
State Leaders Open Emergency Channels for Montanans Caught in Mexico Unrest
Top Montana officials are issuing an urgent call to residents currently traveling in Mexico following a surge in cartel-related violence. Senators Tim Sheehy and Steve Daines, along with Representatives Ryan Zinke and Troy Downing, have opened emergency assistance lines for locals advised to shelter in place. If you or a family member are impacted by the ongoing security operations south of the border, you are urged to contact your congressional representative’s office immediately for coordination and support.
Health Alert: Flu Hospitalizations Climb Across Montana as COVID Cases Dip
Health officials are monitoring a shift in respiratory illness trends across the state this week. New data from the Montana Department of Public Health reveals a rise in influenza hospitalizations, even as total flu and COVID-19 infections show a slight decline. Yellowstone and Gallatin counties remain the state’s primary hotspots. Officials urge residents to stay vigilant with hygiene and vaccinations as the season’s death toll reaches fourteen.
New Rules for the Hunt: Montana Shifts Shed Antler Regulations for Nonresidents
Out of the State Capitol, a new law from the 2025 Legislature is officially taking effect, changing the game for shed antler hunting. Nonresidents looking to scout Montana’s Wildlife Management Areas will now need a fifty-dollar license and must wait seven days after the season opens to begin their search. These changes, aimed at managing pressure on public lands, do not affect Montana residents. For more details on opening dates and bear safety, visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website.
