Ryan K. Zinke

Zinke Announces Introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act

Position: The release announces the introduction of legislation that would designate roughly 430,000 acres in the Blackfoot Valley for a mix of forest restoration and timber production, recreation areas, and wilderness additions, and states support for locally developed, multiple-use public lands management.

Missoula, MT – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the introduction of the A River Runs Through It Act (ARRTI), a locally developed public lands package bringing together more than two decades of work by communities throughout the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Zinke announced the legislation at Smoke Elzer Barn in Missoula, alongside local elected officials, members of the timber industry, sportsmen, recreation groups, and conservation organizations who helped shape the proposal. ARRTI brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Proposal and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal into a single landscape-scale plan encompassing approximately 430,000 acres in the Blackfoot Valley. The legislation puts multiple use at the center by expanding recreation opportunities, allowing for forest restoration, and conserving public lands while supporting timber work, reducing wildfire risk, and protecting public access. “This is what locally led conservation looks like,” said Zinke. “We can put people to work in the woods, support our timber industry, reduce wildfire risk, and keep our forests healthy while protecting public access and conserving the iconic places we cherish. This proposal was built by the people who live, work, hunt, and recreate in the Blackfoot, and after decades of work they found a way forward that keeps this landscape working for everybody.” What the A River Runs Through It Act Does Expands active forest management and timber production. The bill designates six Forest Restoration Areas totaling roughly 180,000 acres where timber harvest, thinning, vegetation management, prescribed fire, stream restoration, and other projects can improve forest health and put more wood products to work in Montana. Increases forest management around Lincoln. The Lincoln Prosperity portion of the bill prioritizes fuel reduction and forest restoration west of Lincoln to reduce wildfire risks to homes and infrastructure, while allowing forest and stream restoration, vegetation management, and other work that gives the local foresters greater flexibility to actively manage forests surrounding the community. Creates designated recreation areas and protects winter access. The legislation establishes six designated recreation areas totaling roughly 60,000 acres, including securing permanent winter access for snowmobiles and adds new mountain biking routes while protecting existing routes and creates a connected Off-Highway Vehicle trail loop more than 70 miles long, including approximately 20 miles of new trails. Protects public access and recreation. The bill maintains and expands opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and off-highway vehicle use while creating new and improved trail connections throughout the Blackfoot Valley. Protects iconic backcountry. The legislation adds roughly 100,000 acres to the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat wilderness areas, creates wilderness on Nevada Mountain, and releases approximately 23,000 acres of Wilderness Study Area land from analysis paralysis and restores public access and multiple use to those lands.. Broad Local Support The A River Runs Through It Act grew out of years of work among people who have not always agreed on how public lands should be managed but came together around a plan that supports multiple use and the communities of the Blackfoot Valley. The unified proposal is supported by Wild Montana, Montana Trout Unlimited, The Wilderness Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Back Country Horsemen of Montana, Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, along with local residents, businesses, and recreation interests. The collaborative efforts that form the foundation of the legislation have also received support from local elected officials and members of the timber industry. “Wild Montana is honored to be part of the two collaboratives that have spent more than two decades developing solutions for the public lands of the Blackfoot watershed. Seeing this work come together in the A River Runs Through It Act is a remarkable achievement. The legislation would protect iconic landscapes, expand recreation access, strengthen forest restoration, support rural economies, and resolve long-standing wilderness study area designations. If passed, it would also establish Montana’s first wilderness designation since 2014. We are grateful for Representative Zinke’s leadership in listening to the residents, businesses, and public land users who know this landscape best. This proposal was built the Montana way: by sitting down together, working through differences, and finding common ground for a place we all love. Now it is up to Congress to recognize how special this hard-won agreement is and pass this locally driven legislation.” - Zach Angstead, Wild MT  ”We’re all drawn to the backcountry for the same reasons: to enjoy Montana’s wild places, to connect with the natural world, and to restore our spiritual health. And we all value the Blackfoot landscape and deserve a place on it. We’re grateful to Rep. Zinke for supporting these community proposals.” - Smoke Elser, retired outfitter and guide ”This proposal reflects Montana values of being good stewards to the land and working together with broad partners to get more accomplished.  Our forests and rural communities need a vibrant forest products industry, and the focus on restoration in the Blackfoot Valley will help sustain the health of both. Thank you to Rep. Zinke for moving this community proposal forward as the A River Runs Through It Act.” - Gordy Sanders, retired forester, Pyramid Mountain Lumber ”Montanans from all over come to Lincoln and the Blackfoot Valley to camp, to go fishing, to go 4 wheeling, to ride their motorcycles or to hike.  So, what happens on the national forest impacts us a lot. That's really what drives our economy. This proposal was built so that no one group loses anything. We all got something out of this project. We’re happy to see Congressman Zinke carry this Montana collaboration to Washington, D.C.” - Bill Cyr, Lincoln resident and retired forester “For motorized recreationists in the upper- Blackfoot Valley, the A River Runs Through It Act provides huge benefits. It will permanently protect important ATV and snowmobile access and authorize construction of several new trail connections. Whether you’re looking for a day-ride with your family or a multi-day backcountry loop riding experience, this bill will improve the quality of the experience for many. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for introducing this legislation.” - Russ Ehnes, President, Great Falls Trail Bike Riders Association “Powell County’s economy depends on both a strong timber industry and a growing recreation economy, and our future depends on making sure the two can thrive together. The A River Runs Through It Act strikes that balance—putting more work into our forests, providing a common-sense solution for long-standing Wilderness Study Areas and giving our communities greater certainty about the future of these lands. This is the kind of practical, locally driven solution that’s good for Powell County.” - Bill Hooker, Powell County Commissioner “The success of our communities relies on our ability to work together and tackle hard problems. The folks in Lincoln have never shied away from the work it takes to get things done, and the proof lies in the A River Runs Through It Act. The proposal balances recreation and conservation with an eye to community wildfire protection and forest health. I am proud to support the A River Runs Through It Act and thrilled to see Rep. Zinke introduce it in the U.S. Congress. This is a big day for Montanans who don't mind rolling up their sleeves and getting things done.” - Andy Hunthausen, Lewis & Clark County Commissioner “True collaboration requires doing the hard work up front rather than choosing the path of least resistance. Over two decades, neighbors in the Blackfoot watershed have built a plan that protects our public lands while keeping our communities viable. They have proven that local voices can successfully unite around a shared vision to protect our natural heritage while ensuring our communities thrive for generations to come. Thank you, Congressman Zinke, for supporting the A River Runs Through It Act.” - Juanita Vero, Missoula County Commissioner “The A River Runs Through It Act is a common-sense solution built by the people who know these lands best. It supports healthier forests and stronger rural economies while respecting the many ways Montanans work on and enjoy our public lands. I commend Congressman Zinke for honoring years of local work by introducing this legislation, and I encourage the rest of Montana’s delegation to help get it across the finish line.” - John Fitzpatrick, House Representative, HD 76 “This is what 25 years of refusing to give up on common ground looks like. For a generation, Montanans have kept showing up because the freedom to enjoy these public lands, the responsibility to conserve them and the obligation to pass them on to future generations are bigger than any one disagreement. We thank Congressman Zinke for recognizing the extraordinary collaboration behind this Montana-built proposal and for carrying it forward in Congress. It honors decades of work by the people of the Blackfoot and is a fitting addition to his long record of championing Montana’s public lands.” - Barb Cestero, Montana State Director, The Wilderness Society "The A River Runs Through It Act wasn't built in Washington—it was built through a collaborative process by the people who hunt, fish and make a living on this landscape. That’s the Montana way and something we can unite behind." - Ryan 'Cal' Callaghan, president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers “For over two decades, residents of the Blackfoot River watershed have come together to create durable, large landscape solutions that benefit all…not just a select few. For these many years this team of united Montanans with diverse interests remained banded together, for the betterment of all Montana families. The “A River Runs Through It Act” is a testament to their dogged determination to ensure local Montanans decide what happens in our backyard, not D.C. politicians. We applaud Congressman Zinke in listening, learning, and advocating for Montana families with introduction and support of this legislation, where all interest groups - and all Montanans - win.” - Keagan Zoellner, Montana State Director, Mountain Mamas Background The A River Runs Through It Act represents more than two decades of locally driven work over the future of public lands in the Blackfoot and Clearwater Valleys. Covering approximately 430,000 acres, the proposal brings together the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship effort and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal, combining active forest management, timber production, wildfire mitigation, recreation, public access, and permanent conservation into a single plan shaped by local communities, sportsmen, timber interests, recreation groups, and conservation organizations. Zinke has long worked on conservation, public access, and active management of western lands. As Secretary of the Interior, he launched the federal-state effort to improve big-game migration corridors and winter range, and since returning to Congress he has introduced the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, helped found the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, advanced legislation to improve wildlife movement and recreation access, and supported active forest management to improve forest health and sustain western communities. Text for the bill can be viewed here. ###

Zinke Receives Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Excellence in Advocacy Award

Position: The release describes Congressman Zinke's support for voluntary, state- and tribal-led big-game migration corridor conservation, public lands retention, forest management reform, and related bills including the Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, Fix Our Forests Act, and Public Lands in Public Hands Act.

Missoula, M.T. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke received the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), recognizing his work to advance conservation, wildlife management, public access to public lands, and America’s hunting heritage. “RMEF has been one of the strongest conservation partners in Montana and across the West, and I’m honored to receive this award,” said Zinke. “From keeping public lands in public hands to improving elk migration corridors and restoring healthy forests, we share a belief that conservation works best when hunters, landowners, states, tribes, and federal managers are at the table. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and look forward to the next generation of leadership in this effort.” “Congressman Zinke has proven time and again through legislative leadership and action that he is committed to real conservation and America’s public lands,” said Kyle Weaver, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president and CEO. “His work crafting and advancing critical legislation resulted in impactful conservation outcomes, making him an invaluable ally to hunter-conservationists throughout our nation." The partnership between Zinke and RMEF extends back to his first term in the House of Representatives, when they worked together on federal forest management reforms that would later help shape provisions included in the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act. Zinke and RMEF also worked to oppose the sale of public lands and protect funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. That partnership expanded during Zinke’s time leading the Department of the Interior. In 2018, Zinke signed Secretarial Order 3362, launching a federal effort to improve western big-game winter range and migration corridors for elk, mule deer and pronghorn through partnerships with states, private landowners and conservation organizations. The initiative remains a major RMEF conservation priority and laid the groundwork for ongoing migration corridor work across the West. Building on that effort, Zinke introduced the bipartisan Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act, which strengthens voluntary, state and tribal-led efforts to conserve big-game migration corridors, improve habitat connectivity and support research and mapping. RMEF hosted the original rollout of the legislation at its Missoula headquarters and praised the bill as directly aligned with its conservation mission. Zinke and RMEF have also worked together in support of several other major conservation and public lands priorities, including the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, the House-passed Fix Our Forests Act, the Wildlife Road Crossings Program Reauthorization Act and the Grizzly Bear State Management Act. RMEF also endorsed the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus co-founded by Zinke, furthering their work on conservation, wildlife habitat, public access and responsible land management and creating a platform for future conservation minded legislators to continue the progress made by their partnership. ### Issues:Congress

Zinke Applauds USFWS Decision on Grizzly Bears

Position: The release applauds a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service draft revision to the 4(d) rule that would give states greater flexibility in managing grizzly bears, and expresses trust in state wildlife professionals to manage the bear population.

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke released the following statement applauding the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s publication of a draft revision to the January 2025 4(d) rule that would give states greater flexibility to manage grizzly bears. "This announcement is a long time coming and very good news for many communities and the wildlife within the Yellowstone ecosystem and across bear country," said Secretary Zinke. "Like the bald eagle before it, the recovery of the grizzly stands as one of America’s great conservation success stories - the culmination of decades of hard work and dedication on the part of the state, tribal, federal, and private partners. As a Montanan and former Secretary of the Interior who started this process, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. I trust our state wildlife professionals in managing the bear population according to the best science going forward, as they do all our wildlife.” Background Since serving as Secretary of the Interior and throughout his time in Congress, Zinke has led efforts to delist recovered grizzly bear populations and return management authority to Montana and other western states. In June 2017, as Secretary of the Interior, Zinke announced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s final rule delisting the recovered Greater Yellowstone grizzly population. In February 2023, Zinke joined Rep. Harriet Hageman in introducing H.R. 1245, the Grizzly Bear State Management Act, to reinstate the 2017 delisting rule. In July 2023, Zinke secured House Appropriations Committee approval of his amendment to delist Greater Yellowstone grizzlies in the FY24 Interior Appropriations bill. In February 2025, Zinke led a congressional letter urging President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to reverse Biden-era grizzly policies and return management authority to the states. In July 2025, Zinke secured language in the FY26 Interior Appropriations bill directing the delisting of the Greater Yellowstone, Northern Continental Divide, and Bitterroot populations. ### Issues:Congress

Zinke Celebrates $53.8 Million in PILT Funding Being Released for Montana Counties

Position: Congressman Zinke celebrates the release of $53.9 million in PILT funding for Montana counties and states he fought to permanently and fully fund PILT to help counties cover roads, law enforcement, emergency services, and property taxes.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke celebrated the release of $53,889,068 in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for Montana counties, an increase of more than $7.3 million over 2025 disbursements. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, Congressman Zinke played a major role in securing these funds. “Public lands are meant to be managed by a multiple-use mandate that allows for public access for recreation, economic development, and conservation. But with years of declining timber sales and economic activity, the counties that host them have been forced to bear the financial burden of management and lost tax revenue,” said Zinke. “Western Montana is nearly 80% federal land. The counties cannot shoulder this burden alone. I fought nonstop to permanently and fully fund PILT and ensure full funding to counties to maintain roads, support law enforcement, fund emergency services, and keep property taxes affordable for local families.” Montana is home to millions of acres of federal land, including national forests, national parks, wildlife refuges, and Bureau of Land Management lands. While these public lands are a cornerstone of Montana's economy and way of life, they reduce the local tax base available to county governments. PILT payments are essential in offsetting the loss of property tax revenue in counties where large portions of land are owned by the federal government and therefore exempt from local taxation. Montana's counties rely on these funds to support essential services such as law enforcement, road maintenance, emergency response, schools, and local infrastructure. The increase in funding comes as many rural Montana counties continue to face rising costs for public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and other essential services. PILT payments provide a reliable source of revenue that helps local governments meet those needs while ensuring the federal government remains a responsible partner to rural communities. See the distribution of PILT funding in Montana by county here.       ### Issues:CongressEconomy

Zinke Introduces 2026 Great American Outdoors Act 250

Position: The release describes Rep. Zinke's introduction of the Great American Outdoors Act 250, which would authorize $1.9 billion over five years for deferred maintenance and improvements on national parks and public lands, and characterizes the original Great American Outdoors Act as a successful measure.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman, former Secretary of the Interior, and key architect of the original Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Ryan Zinke joined House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) in introducing the Great American Outdoors Act 250 (GAOA 250). The legislation reauthorizes and modernizes the Great American Outdoors Act, one of President Trump's signature legislative achievements from his first term, investing $1.9 billion over the next five years to address deferred maintenance across America's national parks and public lands while creating jobs, improving recreational access, and supporting rural gateway communities ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary. As the 52nd Secretary of the Interior, Zinke helped construct and champion the original Great American Outdoors Act, which President Trump signed into law in 2020. The landmark legislation established dedicated funding to tackle decades of deferred maintenance across America's public lands and has since delivered billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements nationwide. "The Great American Outdoors Act was one of the crowning achievements of President Trump's first administration and proved that conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand," said Zinke. "As Secretary of the Interior, I worked alongside President Trump to help build the foundation for this historic investment in our parks and public lands. Six years later, we've seen the results. Roads have been rebuilt, trails restored, visitor facilities modernized, and access improved for hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, and families. GAOA 250 builds on that proven success and ensures these investments continue as America celebrates its 250th birthday." Since its enactment, the original Great American Outdoors Act has funded thousands of projects, improvements, and repairs across the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Indian Education. The law has helped repair roads, bridges, campgrounds, trails, visitor centers, water systems, and other critical infrastructure while supporting local jobs and strengthening rural economies. In Montana alone, GAOA has delivered more than $100 million in investments for public land infrastructure improvements, including road rehabilitation, water system upgrades, trail improvements, campground modernization, historic preservation projects, visitor facility enhancements, and countless projects in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. These projects have improved access and visitor experiences while helping preserve some of Montana's most iconic public lands for future generations. GAOA 250 would: Invest $1.9 billion over five years in national parks and public lands through foreign visitor fees, private donations, and onshore energy revenues. Restore campgrounds, trails, boat ramps, hunting and fishing access sites, and other outdoor recreation infrastructure. Support an estimated 72,500 jobs nationwide and generate $26.4 billion in economic activity for rural gateway communities. Strengthen America's $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy. Establish the new America's Legacy Restoration Fund to continue reducing deferred maintenance backlogs. Expand opportunities for private donations and public-private partnerships. Create dedicated opportunities for outdoor recreation and sportsmen's access projects. Codify President Trump's foreign visitor fee policy to generate new revenue for maintenance projects. The bill will now be referred to the House Natural Resources Committee. Read the full text of the bill here. Issues:Congress

Zinke-Led Military Sales Bill Passes House, Bolstering U.S. Manufacturing and Global Alliances

Position: The release supports the Allied Defense Sales Act, which would facilitate joint multinational purchases of U.S.-made defense equipment by allied nations, streamline approvals and licensing, and expand financing access for defense exports.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Ryan Zinke’s Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening American manufacturing by making it easier for allied nations to jointly purchase U.S.-made defense equipment while deepening strategic partnerships abroad. The bill is a continuation of Zinke’s work as Chairman of the Foreign Military Sales Task Force, where he has worked alongside the Department of War to modernize military sales, securing huge wins through legislation and executive order. “America builds the best defense equipment in the world, and our allies need it to safeguard their – and our – people and interests,” said Zinke. “This bill helps cut through the bureaucracy so our partners can work together to buy American-made systems faster and more efficiently. That means stronger and more secure alliances, and more manufacturing jobs here at home.” “Strengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex and dangerous world,” said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. “I’m pleased the House has passed our bipartisan legislation to help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver critical capabilities more efficiently." The bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries with similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for American manufacturers. Under the current system, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to purchase U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can delay orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible and coordinated approach for enabling multinational procurement, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, further helping generate more consistent demand for U.S.-made systems. The legislation directs the Department of War to assess interest among allied nations, identify potential lead coordinator countries for joint purchases, recommend ways to streamline approvals and licensing, and increase the exportability of defense articles and services. It also explores ways to expand access to financing tools and accelerate sales outside traditional programs, ensuring American defense companies can respond more quickly to allied demand. Read the full text of the bill here. ### Issues:Congress

$17.5 Million in Zinke’s Infrastructure Requests and Many More Montana Priorities Head to the Floor for a Vote

Position: The release describes Congressman Zinke's support for FY27 appropriations bills that include community project funding for water, wastewater, and transportation projects in Montana, along with provisions on rural highways, rental assistance, grizzly bear delisting, and combating drug trafficking in Indian Country. It states his intent to advocate for the bills' enactment.

Washington, D.C. - Last night, the FY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and the FY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), and Related Agencies Appropriations Act passed full committee markup. The bills included $17,500,000 in community project funding requested by Zinke, including continued funding for the Noxon Bridge and Seeley Lake wastewater treatment plant. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Zinke helped craft both bills, which now head to the House floor for a vote. “Montana priorities are front and center in these bills,” said Zinke. “These investments will improve water and wastewater infrastructure, strengthen transportation and public safety, support affordable housing, and deliver real results for rural communities across Montana. The bills also include key provisions to delist recovered grizzly populations, combat drug trafficking in Indian Country, modernize transportation systems, and support working families and seniors. All Montana priorities, and all issues I will be fighting to get in the President’s hands to be signed into law.” See Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding requests included in the bills: FY27 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Flathead County, $1,000,000 – Lakeside Wastewater System Improvement Project Phase 1 Flathead County, $1,000,000 – Bigfork County Sewer District West Trunk Sewer Project Lake County, $1,500,000 – Charlo Water and Sewer District Wastewater Lagoon Rehabilitation Flathead County, $1,500,000 – Evergreen Flood Resiliency and Groundwater Quality Improvements Missoula County, $1,750,000 – Lolo Wastewater Well Upgrades Phase 2 Granite County, $1,750,000 – Granite County Clean Water Infrastructure Project Phase 2 FY27 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: Ravalli County $500,000 – Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II Ravalli County, $500,000 – Old Corvallis Road Repair Phase II Missoula County, $1,000,000 – Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant Project Phase II Butte-Silver Bow County, $2,000,000 – Critical Minerals Extraction Advancements by Montana Tech Sanders County, $5,000,000 – Noxon Bridge Replacement Phase II Zinke provisions included in the bills: THUD Low Population Highway Infrastructure Directs the Federal Highway Administration to ensure rural highway projects in counties under 50,000 residents receive fair consideration, even if they are not included in state transportation plans, helping small and remote communities compete for critical road safety and infrastructure funding. Project-Based Rental Assistance Provides $18.975 billion to renew housing assistance contracts for approximately 1.2 million families, an increase of $432 million over last year, ensuring continued stability for low-income households and seniors in rental housing, helping maintain stability in tight housing markets where rent increases have priced out many fixed-income residents. Housing Market Support Staff Directs HUD to closely monitor rapidly rising rental markets and dedicate staff support to communities facing housing shortages, helping local governments respond more quickly to affordability pressures. This gives smaller communities better access to federal expertise when rents spike or housing supply tightens unexpectedly. Zinke has consistently pushed for stronger HUD responsiveness to rural and mid-sized communities that often lack dedicated federal support capacity. Rent Reporting for Affordable Housing Creates a pilot program allowing on-time rent payments to be reported to credit agencies with tenant consent and privacy protections, helping renters build credit history and improve pathways to homeownership. This is especially helpful for working families and young renters who consistently pay rent but do not receive credit for it under traditional scoring models. Interior Grizzly Bear Delisting (Northern Continental Divide & Greater Yellowstone) Directs the Interior Department to remove recovered grizzly bear populations from the endangered species list within 180 days, reflecting population recovery and returning greater management authority to state wildlife agencies. Zinke has long been a leader on this policy, submitting multiple bills and report language on the issue throughout his time in Congress. This shift is intended to give Montana and other Western states more flexibility to manage wildlife conflict, protect livestock, and maintain balanced conservation outcomes. Opioid Task Force Requires the Interior Department to brief Congress within 90 days on efforts to restart a drug enforcement task force focused on combating opioid and drug trafficking in tribal communities. This responds to ongoing concerns about drug trafficking routes impacting reservation communities across Montana and the West. Zinke has repeatedly emphasized the need for stronger coordination between federal, state, and tribal law enforcement to address the opioid crisis in Indian Country. As Secretary of Interior, Zinke created the Joint Opioid Reduction Task Force and has continued to work to address this issue in his time in Congress. Cottonwood Fix Provides a permanent legislative fix to the Cottonwood court decision by limiting when the U.S. Forest Service must reinitiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to cases involving substantial new developments or changes to forest management plans. It will reduce delays that have stalled logging and forest management projects, address backlogs, and improve wildfire response and habitat management across Montana and the West. Zinke has previously introduced similar legislation in 2016 and 2023, both of which drew bipartisan and conservation support. Recently, this fix has passed the House in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (Farm Bill). National Wildlife Refuge Fund Provides $16.2 million in funding to counties containing federal wildlife refuges to offset lost property tax revenue, helping support essential local services such as schools, roads, and emergency response. Half of western Montana counties contain National Wildlife Refuges and will receive funding from this program, helping stabilize local budgets that depend heavily on federal land payments. Native American Ironworker Training Funds workforce development programs that provide Native communities with training iron working as well as in advanced manufacturing and digital fabrication skills, supporting long-term economic opportunity and job growth for tribal members. The program was restarted in last years Interior appropriations bill at Zinke’s request. Wolverines Prohibits the use of federal funds to implement the Biden-era North American wolverine endangered species listing, following specific finding and maintaining current management approaches while further evaluation continues. This prevents unnecessary litigation and restrictions to occur in Montana’s timber harvesting forests. This prevents unnecessary litigation and regulatory uncertainty that can stall timber and land management projects in Montana’s forested regions. CMR Bison Management Prohibits federal funding for the introduction of bison into the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, maintaining existing land use and grazing management practices in eastern Montana. This preserves longstanding grazing agreements that many local ranchers depend on for economic stability. Read the full text of the Interior bill here. Read the full text of the THUD bill here. ###

Montana Ag Priorities and Over $4.8 Million in Zinke Requested Rural Infrastructure Funding Passes the House in the FY27 Ag Appropriations Bill

Position: The release states that the FY27 Agriculture appropriations bill, which passed the House, secures rural infrastructure funding for Montana communities and includes provisions strengthening agricultural disease protection, restricting foreign ownership of U.S. farmland, and supporting food safety and pulse crop research.

Washington, D.C. - Today, the FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Act passed the House of Representatives. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke helped craft the bill, and secured $4.8 million in rural infrastructure funding as well as multiple policy priorities for Montana ag producers. The bill now heads to the Senate for a vote. "I’ve made it a priority to stand up for rural America and the people who keep this country fed,” said Zinke. “The funding in this bill will upgrade basic infrastructure in places like Columbia Falls, Libby, and Ronan and strengthen emergency communications. And I've made sure it cracks down on foreign ownership of American farmland and strengthens food safety protections because food security is national security. Montana Farmers and Ranchers produce a gold star product, and my job is to make sure they have the infrastructure, funding, and administration policy to back them.” Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding requests included in the bill: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, $187,500 – Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Emergency Comms Flathead County, $2,325,000 – City of Columbia Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Phase 1 Lake County, $69,000 - Charlo Volunteer Fire Department Lake County, $259,612 – Lake County Office of Emergency Management Communication Tower Replacements Lincoln County, $1,000,000 – City of Libby Water Filtration Phase 1 Lake County, $1,000,000 – Ronan Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrade Phase 1 Ag priorities included in the bill: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Provides $1.16 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to protect American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases, including High-Path Avian Influenza, New World Screwworm, and other foreign plant and animal threats. This funding supports rapid response capabilities and strengthens protections for American producers and food supply chains. Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land Strengthens oversight of foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land by improving tracking systems and adding the Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) for reviews of agricultural land transactions involving foreign adversaries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. This increases transparency and helps safeguard American farmland and food security. Pulse Crop Health Initiative Provides an additional $500,000 for research into the health and nutritional benefits of pulse crops, including dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans. Montana is one of the nation’s leading pulse crop producers, and this research supports market development and producer competitiveness. Precision Livestock Management Research Maintains funding for precision livestock management research focused on maximizing rangeland resources for beef cattle and sheep production while maintaining vegetation diversity, healthy soils, and resilient plant communities. This research is particularly important for western rangelands during fall and winter grazing seasons. Semi-Arid West Soil Health Research Maintains funding for soil health research across integrated cropland and rangeland systems in the semi-arid West. Research will integrate emerging sensor technologies and modeling tools to help producers better assess and manage soils while supporting public lands and livestock production. Barley Pest Initiative Increases funding for the Barley Pest Initiative to support research addressing major threats to sustainable and profitable barley production and utilization. Montana is one of the top barley-producing states in the country, and this research helps protect yields and strengthen agricultural markets. Food Safety and Inspection Service Increases resources for the Food Safety and Inspection Service to support frontline meat and poultry inspectors and strengthen state inspection programs. This helps maintain food safety standards while supporting livestock producers and meat processing operations. Farm Service Agency Staffing Increases overall funding for Farm Service Agency staffing, including county office staff, helping improve service delivery and support for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Read the full text of the bill here. ### Issues:Congress

Zinke Introduces Allied Defense Sales Act to Boost U.S. Manufacturing and Strengthen Alliances

Position: The release advocates for legislation that would streamline the process for allied nations to jointly purchase U.S. defense equipment, with the stated goals of strengthening U.S. manufacturing, improving interoperability among allies, and deepening strategic partnerships.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and Foreign Military Sales Task Force Chairman Ryan Zinke and Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA-06), members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, introduced the Allied Defense Sales Act, legislation aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing by making it easier for allies to jointly purchase American-made defense equipment, while deepening strategic partnerships abroad. The bill is modeled after successful multinational cooperation efforts and focuses on helping groups of allied countries that share similar defense needs coordinate joint purchases. By aligning demand across multiple partners, the legislation would help stabilize production and accelerate delivery timelines for U.S. manufacturers. "Our allies should be fighting adversaries, not red tape,” said Zinke. “This bipartisan bill helps keep production lines hot, improves our allies’ ability to work together, and ensures the United States remains the security partner of choice for nations in the fight for freedom.” “Strengthening our partnerships abroad is critical to advancing our national security interests and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex world,” said Representative Ami Bera, M.D. “This bipartisan legislation will help trusted allies and partners coordinate purchases of U.S. defense equipment, improve interoperability, and deliver capabilities more efficiently. By encouraging these kinds of ‘group buys,’ we can support smaller partners, bolster our domestic industrial base, strengthen our defense relationships, and better meet shared security challenges around the world.” Under current systems, many smaller countries face steep barriers when trying to buy U.S. equipment due to the scale and complexity of the process. These hurdles can slow down orders and create uncertainty for American manufacturers. The Allied Defense Sales Act addresses these challenges by creating a more flexible, coordinated approach, especially for partners in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, helping generate more consistent demand for U.S.-made systems. The legislation directs the Department of State to assess interest among allied nations, identify potential lead coordinator countries for joint purchases, recommend ways to streamline approvals and licensing, and increase the exportability of defense articles and services. It also explores ways to expand access to financing tools and speed up sales outside traditional programs, ensuring American defense companies can respond more quickly to allied demand. The bill now heads to committee for further consideration. Read the full text of the bill HERE. ### Issues:Congress

Farm Bill Passes House: Zinke Secures Huge Wins to Repeal Cottonwood, Support Farmers & Ranchers, Improve Wildlife Conservation

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Ryan Zinke announced the House passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, commonly known as the Farm Bill. A comprehensive piece of legislation designed to strengthen American agriculture, support rural communities, and improve forest and land management. The bill includes six provisions sponsored or co-sponsored by Zinke, notably codifying a permanent fix to the disastrous Cottonwood Decision that has strangled forest management in Montana for over a decade. “The Farm Bill gives farmers and ranchers the certainty they need to keep doing what they do best and keeps the communities around them strong and stable,” said Zinke. “It preserves food assistance for those who truly need it while cutting waste and fraud and making sure families have access to nutritious food. It supports rural economies, strengthens basic infrastructure so it actually works for the people who live there, and helps folks get access to the health services they rely on without having to leave their towns. It also pushes smarter forest management to reduce wildfire risk and keep our lands healthier for the long haul. At the end of the day, this bill is about keeping American agriculture and small towns strong and built to last.” The Farm Bill, typically reauthorized every five years, has been operating under an extension since 2023. This legislation reauthorizes and modernizes key USDA programs through 2031, providing long-term stability for producers. Key provisions of the Farm Bill include: Expands access to credit and risk management tools for farmers and ranchers facing tough economic conditions Improves SNAP with stronger accountability and a greater focus on healthier outcomes, without increasing federal spending Bolsters support for specialty crop producers and domestic fruit and vegetable production Streamlines conservation programs and strengthens management of working lands and federal forests Enhances export promotion efforts to help address the agricultural trade deficit Modernizes rural development and energy programs and increases investment in research Protects interstate livestock commerce and maintains access to critical crop protection tools The legislation is supported by more than 500 agricultural and stakeholder organizations and maintains budget neutrality while preserving savings achieved through the One Big Beautiful Bill. Zinke provisions included in the bill Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act The bill directs USDA to provide more resources and incentives for farmers and ranchers to improve habitat connectivity and wildlife movement on working lands, prioritizing wildlife corridors within critical conservation areas under the Regional Conservation Partnership Program and building on efforts like Wyoming’s Big Game Conservation Partnership. It encourages practices like virtual fencing to better manage livestock and expand USDA research and guidance on connectivity tools. Congressman Zinke has long led on this issue, including as Secretary of the Interior when he signed Secretarial Order 3362 in 2018 to work with western states on improving big-game winter range and migration corridors on federal lands while respecting state authority and private property rights, a framework that helped states like Wyoming protect key mule deer migration corridors in southwest Wyoming. FIR Act (Cottonwood Fix) The bill provides a permanent legislative fix to the Cottonwood court decision by limiting when the U.S. Forest Service must reinitiate consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to cases involving substantial new developments or changes to forest management plans. It will reduce delays that have stalled logging and forest management projects, address backlogs, and improve wildfire response and habitat management across Montana and the West. Zinke has previously introduced similar legislation in 2016 and 2023, both of which drew bipartisan and conservation support. The Cottonwood decision stems from a 2015 ruling by Obama-appointed U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen in Cottonwood Environmental Law Center v. U.S. Forest Service, after a lawsuit brought by the Bozeman-based environmental group the Cottonwood Environmental Law Center. The ruling forced the Forest Service to reopen Endangered Species Act consultations on already approved forest plans, giving activist groups a pathway to repeatedly relitigate projects and tie them up in court. Since then, Montana has become the most litigated states in the country for timber harvesting, with projects delayed or halted, closing mills and leaving loggers and rural counties left in limbo. The decision has blocked common-sense forest management like thinning and fuels reduction, increasing wildfire risk while undercutting a key part of Montana’s economy. Legislation cosponsored by Zinke included in the Bill H.R. 4713 Rural Hospital Technical Assistance Program Act – Provides resources and guidance to help rural hospitals remain operational and expand access to care H.R. 3361 Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025 – Extends successful forest restoration efforts that reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health H.R.178 - To require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out activities to suppress wildfires, and for other purposes – Strengthens the Forest Service’s ability to carry out wildfire suppression and prevention activities H.R. 179 Proven Forest Management Act of 2025 – Promotes active forest management to reduce forest fuels (dead and dying timber, etc.) and prevent catastrophic wildfires. The bill now heads to the Senate for a vote. ### Issues:CongressEnergy