Bipartisan 'dark money' bill hits roadblock

HELENA (AP) — A bipartisan measure backed by Gov. Steve Bullock hoping to force more disclosure on money in politics is hitting a roadblock.

A Republican-controlled House committee tabled Senate Bill 375 on Monday. Supporters who argue it is needed to crack down on so-called dark money political groups were hoping the measure could be resuscitated with a longshot vote later on the House floor.

Opponents argue anonymity is an important part of political speech in the country, and say the measure won't really solve any problems.

A different House committee advanced two GOP-backed ballot initiatives.

One would end same-day voter registration, and another would change elections so that only two candidates face each other in the general election. Both sides expect the bills would help Republicans in statewide elections.

Amended raw milk bill gets Montana Senate support

HELENA, (AP) — The Montana Senate is backing an amended measure that allows for the sale of raw milk, but only under the Department of Livestock's regulation.

The bill's sponsor, Republican Rep. Champ Edmunds of Missoula, says he opposes the amendments, which would restrict the sale of raw milk to Grade A Dairies that are set up to comply in accordance with governmental regulation.

The measure still allows for herd share exemptions — a provision that allows people who share ownership in cows to receive raw milk.

Supporters of the measure say the bill is a good compromise between necessary regulation and raw-milk drinkers.

House Bill 574 gained the Senate's initial support in a 39-10 vote Monday and will need to get another two-thirds approval in a final vote.