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PNS - Thursday, April 3, 2025 - Trump announces sweeping new tariffs to promote US manufacturing, risking inflation and trade wars; Arizonans experience some of the highest insurance premiums; U.S. immigration policy leaves trans migrants at TX-Mexico border in limbo; Repealing clean energy tax credits could raise American energy costs.
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PNS - Wednesday, April 2, 2025 - Trump to roll out sweeping new tariffs; Federal moves leave MN farmers in state of limbo; Chicago nonprofit transforms former toxic site to feed community; Groups advocate for more civic engagement in WA prisons.
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By Kathleen Shannon - Producer, Contact - News
Big Sky Connection - Montana is a sprawling state that must deal with years of underinvestment in critical infrastructure. A new 'report card' by the American Society of Civil Engineers gives the state a grade of 'C-minus,' and recommends the state find dedicated funding and update its regulations to make improvements. Comments by Darren Olson, report card committee chair, American Society of Civil Engineers.
Kathleen Shannon
April 2, 2025 - Montana scored a "C-minus" on a new Report Card for America's infrastructure.
The American Society of Civil Engineers said the state's performance is average in upgrading its drinking water, solid waste and aviation systems. But more funding is needed for schools -- since most were built before 1970 -- and stormwater infrastructure, which the Environmental Protection Agency has estimated would need $22 million in upgrades.
Darren Olson, chair of the report card committee, said states should make improvements to brace for extreme weather events and other environmental challenges.
"Investments in resilient infrastructure are consistently proven to be an effective use of limited public dollars, especially by minimizing rebuilding needs after a significant event," Olson pointed out. "By adopting the most up-to-date codes and standards, communities will be better equipped to handle disasters."
The report showed updating building codes will be essential to protecting public health, public lands and improving traffic safety. It also suggested the state find dedicated funding for infrastructure improvements, as temporary sources can lead to gaps.
Montana scored "incomplete" in the broadband category. The Montana Broadband Office has a goal of statewide access by 2030 but it currently ranks at the bottom nationally. The 2021 federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated $775 million for broadband projects nationally, including almost $100 million for Tribal communities.
"In 2000, only 1% of U.S. adults had broadband access at home, compared to 80% today," Olson reported. "However, it is estimated that around 12.7 million people do not have a broadband subscription."
In Montana, only 71% of broadband service meets today's high-speed standards, compared to 93% nationally.
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PNS - Wednesday, April 2, 2025 - Speaker Johnson cites constitutional limits to a third presidential term. Groups plan nationwide protests against executive overreach. Students raise concerns over academic freedom following a visa-related arrest in Boston. And U.S. Senate resolution aims to block new tariffs on Canada.
