Briefs for March 5, 2025
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Bill narrows Medicaid Expansion in effort to reduce program costs
News from Montana Senate Republicans
HELENA — The Senate Public Health Committee heard a bill on Wednesday, Feb. 26, to narrow eligibility requirements for Medicaid Expansion in an effort to reduce state costs for the program.
The legislation would limit Medicaid Expansion to able-bodied adults under 65 years of age who earn between 0% and 100% of the federal poverty level and comply with community engagement requirements.
Senate Bill 334 is sponsored by Senate President Matt Regier, R-Kalispell.
“This bill aims to help the Montanans most in need, get more residents insured via the market, and ensure the financial viability of our state’s Medicaid Expansion program,” Regier said. “We need to reform this program now, lest we face serious consequences later.”
The bill also outlines protocol for convening a special legislative session if the federal assistance percentage for Medicaid-funded services decreases more than 90 days before the next legislative session. The legislation would take effect on July 1, 2025, and terminate on June 30, 2029.
Addressing the sunset of Montana’s Medicaid Expansion program and reforming the program has been a priority of Senate Republicans this legislative session. This bill works in conjunction with HB 245 from Representative Ed Buttrey, which renews the program.
Spring debris burning to open
News from CSKT
FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Spring debris burning season will open Saturday, March 1. Burning is a great way to clear dead vegetation and clean up. Before you light your piles or grass this spring, take the necessary precautions to ensure your burn does not become the next wildfire. Careless debris burning is one of the main causes of wildfire on the Flathead Indian Reservation.
It is open burning season from March 1-April 30, 2025, on the Flathead Indian Reservation. To burn from May 1 to June 30 you will need a burn permit. You can apply for a burn permit starting April 30, 2025, at the Division of Fire website: csktfire.org.
Burn early in the day and check weather for afternoon or next day wind conditions. Have proper personnel, equipment, and water supply with you and always make sure the area is cold to the touch before leaving. Checking the following day is also important as stumps or roots may be holding heat that could re-ignite.
If a fire does get out of control call 911 immediately.
Remember you are responsible for all suppression, property costs if your fire escapes your control.
If you have any questions about debris burning call the Division of Fire at 406-676-2550.
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