Governor Greg Gianforte continued his fifth annual 56 County Tour this week, meeting with Montanans in Golden Valley, Wheatland, and Fergus counties to celebrate legislative wins and highlight rural resilience.
During stops across central Montana, the governor met with lawmakers, small business owners, and community leaders, emphasizing the importance of local leadership and education.
“The strength of our rural communities is thanks to the leadership of legislators, the small business owners who invest in our economy, and the parents and educators who bring up the next generation,” Gianforte said. “It’s great to highlight the Montanans who make our state stronger.”
Promoting Education and Civic Engagement
In Ryegate, Gianforte joined Rep. Greg Oblander (R-Billings) to ceremonially sign House Bill 591, establishing the last week of September as Freedom Week in Montana public schools. The new observance will focus on teaching students the history and foundational documents of the United States and Montana.
The governor has made civics and financial literacy education a cornerstone of his administration. At his request, the Montana Board of Public Education added both subjects as graduation requirements for high school students.
Furthering his push for civics, Gianforte also highlighted House Bill 377, signed last session and sponsored by Rep. Linda Reksten (R-Polson), which created the Montana 250th Commission. The commission is preparing for the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026 and is working with educators to expand civics education statewide.
Supporting Faith-Based Child Services
Also in Ryegate, Gianforte ceremonially signed House Bill 655, the Keep Kids First Act, sponsored by Rep. Oblander. The legislation prohibits discriminatory actions against faith-based organizations that offer adoption and foster care services.
Apprenticeships in Action
In Wheatland County, the governor visited Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service in Harlowton — the only veterinary clinic in Montana offering a registered apprenticeship program. The clinic trains students over two years, combining college coursework with on-the-job training to prepare them for certification as veterinary technicians.
“Increasing apprenticeships has been a top priority since day one,” Gianforte said. Thanks to a rule change early in his administration allowing one journeyman to supervise two apprentices, Montana reached a record number of new apprentices in 2024.
Strengthening Educational Choice
Wrapping up the day in Lewistown, Fergus County, Gianforte joined Rep. Randyn Gregg (R-White Sulphur Springs) to ceremonially sign House Bill 778, which ensures consistency in state laws for homeschooling families.
Speaking with homeschool advocates and parents, the governor touted the bill as part of a broader effort to expand educational freedom. He also pointed to recent wins from the legislative session, including the largest income tax cut in Montana history and significant property tax reforms.
Gianforte continues his 56 County Tour today with stops in Judith Basin and Meagher counties. The statewide tour has become a hallmark of his administration, designed to connect directly with residents in every corner of Montana.