Endangered Species Act Rollback: The Trump Interior Department canceled automatic threatened-species protections, replacing them with slower, species-by-species plans that critics say could let oil and gas, mining, and construction seek exemptions and delay safeguards for imperiled wildlife. Montana Jobs: Gov. Greg Gianforte says a new Stat Ranker report puts Montana 9th nationally for year-over-year job growth, citing more than 2,100 jobs added from Feb. 2025 to Feb. 2026. Montana Agriculture Lab Boost: Montana State University opened a new $58M Combined State Laboratories building to unite the state’s veterinary diagnostic, agriculture analytical, and MSU wool labs—aimed at faster research and testing for Montana agriculture. Data Centers Debate: Great Falls residents are weighing potential benefits like property-tax revenue and construction jobs against concerns about energy and water demands, as the state signs ratepayer protection commitments. Local Development Watch: Fremont County commissioners advanced a controversial Henry’s Lake Flats subdivision plan despite strong habitat concerns. Health Costs Ahead: Montana ACA enrollees may face another steep 2027 premium spike as higher health and drug costs and enrollment shifts strain the risk pool. Energy Impact Report: Black Hills Energy released a community impact report touting $1.65B in direct economic impact across its service states, including Montana. Heat & Fishing Limits: Hoot Owl restrictions expanded as extreme temperatures stress fish on popular Montana rivers.