Feds Approve Montana’s SNAP Junk Food Ban

Montana has become the twenty-third state to ban soft drinks, candy, and junk food from the federal SNAP program.

Governor Greg Gianforte announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved the state's waiver request, which he submitted in March. The new restrictions target energy drinks, beverages with more than ten grams of sugar per eight ounces, and prepared desserts like packaged snack cakes. Items like milk, one-hundred percent fruit juice, and protein bars remain approved.

State health officials say the policy aligns with national dietary guidelines to help combat chronic conditions like obesity and Type Two diabetes.

     🍫 According to the U.S.D.A., roughly 20% of SNAP’s nearly $100 billion federal budget is currently spent on unhealthy foods and drinks.

More I-90 construction delays are coming west of Missoula

Drivers heading through Mineral County should prepare for summer construction on Interstate 90.

Starting next week, the Montana Department of Transportation and Riverside Contracting will begin resurfacing a four-mile stretch of I-90 between Saltese and Haugan. Commuters should expect single-lane traffic, delays, and a reduced speed limit of thirty-five miles per hour between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

     Wide loads over 12 feet will face restrictions and must schedule passage in advance. The project is expected to wrap up by the end of August.

Study: Montana's bad roads costing you money

A new national report warns that a lack of transportation funding is putting the future of Montana’s roads and bridges at risk.

The study, released today by the research nonprofit TRIP, reveals that nearly one-third of major roads in the Big Sky State are in poor or mediocre condition. Rough pavement is costing the average Montana driver over $600 annually in extra vehicle repairs and fuel consumption.

The report also found that 7% of the state’s bridges are structurally deficient, while Montana’s traffic fatality rate remains the seventh highest in the nation. Infrastructure officials say that while local investments have helped, rising costs and aging systems continue to outpace available funding, leaving critical safety projects stranded on the drawing board.