Gov. Greg Gianforte repealed Montana’s mask mandate Friday. Many Montana health officials say it’s too soon, and some are keeping local masking requirements. Gianforte’s directive , issued Friday morning, says, "Montanans are encouraged to wear masks." That’s a departure from the face covering requirement issued by former Gov. Steve Bullock last July .

A fourth Montana state lawmaker has tested positive for COVID-19 after working in-person at the Capitol in Helena. Nearly two dozen close contacts have been identified in connection with positive cases tied to the Capitol.

Some Helena businesses are raising concerns about state legislators flouting public health guidance amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lewis and Clark County health officer says she's received reports concerning lawmakers who are in town for the current legislative session.

Montana lawmakers are considering a bill that would give the governor more power over judicial appointments. Senate Bill 140 would give the governor the ability to directly appoint district court and Supreme Court judge vacancies until the next election by eliminating the Judicial Nominating Commission.

The Montana Senate gave an initial endorsement this week to a bill meant to encourage the spread of high-speed internet across the state . The legislation would introduce tax exemptions for businesses that lay the cable needed for high-speed connections.

A third Montana lawmaker has tested positive for COVID-19. Rep. Brian Putnam, a Republican from Kalispell, is the third lawmaker to test positive for the coronavirus since the 2021 legislative session began in January. He has been working at the Capitol in person.

As of mid-day Friday, 594 bills had been introduced and Gov. Greg Gianforte had signed one bill into law. This week, we’re watching bills that would cut taxes, implement “right to work” policies and end same-day voter registration in Montana.

Gov. Greg Gianforte wants to increase the power of Montana's executive branch. Meanwhile, U.S. Congressman Matt Rosendale loses a battle with the national Republican leadership. And state Legislature moves toward making it harder to vote and easier to carry concealed guns. Listen now on Capitol Talk with Sally Mauk, Holly Michels and Rob Saldin.

A bill to expand carrying options for concealed firearms in public places — including universities — is heading to the governor’s desk after the state Legislature gave its final endorsement of the policy Friday.

A Kalispell Republican has revived an effort to amend Montana’s Constitution in an attempt to fundamentally change the state’s tax code. Critics say the proposed policy is confusing and could leave a massive hole in the state budget.