American Indian Caucus celebrates legislative victories in Montana

Members of Montana’s American Indian Caucus say the 2025 legislative session marked a historic high for advancing their priorities, according to a story co-published by Montana Free Press and ICT. Rep. Tyson Running Wolf called it “the most productive American Indian Caucus I’ve ever been part of,” during an April meeting. The group successfully advanced multiple bills, including one establishing Indigenous Peoples Day as a state holiday and extending the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act.

Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy passed seven of 11 bills and will serve as Senate dean next session. Caucus members also helped defeat legislation that threatened treaty rights and pushed for more tribal consultation in health policymaking. An amendment was made to the state budget bill, however, funding and decisions will depend on the state health department. Rep. Donavon Hawk said there is “a lot more to do,” especially around consultation.