AGP Executive Report
Last update: 7 hours agoLaurel Forensic Facility Fight: Montana’s Board of Investments posted a revised environmental assessment draft and set a new public hearing for Sept. 8 in Billings, as opponents with Laurel C.A.R.E.D. push to move it to Laurel and extend public comment; the update weighs options for water access, including property purchases, annexation challenges, and even eminent domain. Public Safety—Bears: Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigating a bear attack on a woman walking her dog on the Cedar Flats trail complex north of Columbia Falls; the trail remains closed while officials search for the animal and remind Montanans to carry bear spray and travel smart in bear country. Health Alert—Rabies: Cascade County health officials confirmed a bat tested positive for rabies and urged residents to avoid handling wild animals and make sure pets are vaccinated. Energy Oversight: The Montana Public Service Commission ordered NorthWestern Energy to redo its 20-year power plan after regulators found gaps in the utility’s modeling and planning. State Workforce: Gov. Greg Gianforte’s task force is recommending licensing changes aimed at filling shortages in public health, safety and welfare jobs, with legislative steps expected next session. Education Watch: Montana reading scores have fallen every year since 2017 as chronic absenteeism rises, according to the latest state report card.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.