Good morning, Helena.

A debate over data center electricity use heated at the Legislature this week after a Tuesday hearing as lawmakers, NorthWestern Energy, and business groups clashed over House Bill 877, which would remove the Public Service Commission's power to review loads above five megawatts.

The bill was tabled in committee amid concerns that without oversight, rising power costs for homes could follow — leaving ratepayers at risk.

Superintendent Susie Hedalen, who started in January, asked the Legislature for about $643,000 to cover a six-figure gap at the Office of Public Instruction.

She is cutting extra contracts + working to lower staff turnover and change the agency culture as she partners with state and federal officials on new education policies.

Legislators and soil lovers gathered at the State Capitol on Wednesday for Montana’s second annual Soil Health Week — a series of events that will run through April 7 to highlight how healthy soils boost crop yields, food security, and climate resiliency.

A GOP lawmaker revived a bill on Tuesday at the state Capitol that would let the governor and Senate appoint three of the five Public Service Commission members instead of having them elected by voters—Senate Bill 561 passed a committee vote 9—4 even as PSC President Brad Molnar said the rescheduled hearing blocked his chance to speak.

Helena residents will need to drive over 30 miles for passport services because the town's only approved provider—the USPS—is down for accepting passport applications.

Montana legislators are reviewing HB 392, known as the Child Digital Protection Act, which would require content creators earning 10 cents per view or more to delete online videos featuring minors and set up a trust for child compensation.

The bill passed its third reading in the Senate and now returns to the House—Rep. Katie Zolnikov said children have six years after turning 18 to use their right to be forgotten since they cannot give informed consent.

2025 Gold Country Master Gardener Symposium

9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Carroll Campus Center — Registration fee includes lunch — Dive into horticultural education and network with garden enthusiasts while learning about sustainable practices.

Hotel California

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Cost Info Unavailable — Experience the iconic sound of The Eagles performed live by HOTEL CALIFORNIA.

Lucky Stiff in Helena

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with a unique performance supporting local causes.

SFST/Intoxilyzer Training Course

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Montana Law Enforcement Academy — $400 — Gain practical skills in DUI processing with expert instructors from the MT Crime Lab and Montana Highway Patrol.

Lucky Stiff

7:30-9 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Enjoy a night of entertainment while giving back to the community.

Lucky Stiff Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Tickets vary — Enjoy a unique theatrical experience that supports charitable causes.

Montana Warrior Run

8:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Spring Meadow Lake State Park — Registration fee required — Celebrate community spirit while participating in this annual run to promote awareness and wellness.

2025 Fundraising Summit

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Delta Hotels Helena Colonial — $95 – $305 — A day exploring trends and strategies for building a strong fundraising foundation.

Triple Crown Gala

6-11 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — $150 — Experience an evening of elegance and empowerment at this Kentucky Derby-themed charity event supporting adults with disabilities.

HYP Mingle at Ten Mile Creek Brewery

6-8 p.m. — Ten Mile Creek Brewery — Free microbrews for members — Unwind with friends while enjoying local brews at a great venue.