Superfund Cleanup & Environment: Gov. Greg Gianforte toured the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company Superfund site with EPA officials as cleanup plans move forward, including soil remediation, a slurry wall, and monitoring aimed at protecting the Flathead River and returning land to productive use. Public Safety & Corrections: Cascade County says staffing shortages at the Detention Center are forcing immediate operational changes, including limits on City Court detainees and coordinated removals for ICE/CBP detainees and transfers. Higher Ed Fraud: A Legislative Audit Division report says a “ghost student” enrollment scheme at UM’s Missoula College drained $673,745 in federal aid in 2025, with UM later repaying funds and pursuing an insurance claim. Energy & Costs: Montana diesel prices hit a new record above $6 a gallon, underscoring how fuel costs ripple through trucking, construction, farming, and everyday goods. Workforce & Training: The Montana Contractors Association hosted a Build Montana trade careers pop-up in Butte, giving kids hands-on exposure to construction trades amid ongoing workforce shortages. Housing Affordability: Big Sky School District is tackling teacher housing challenges by partnering with Habitat for Humanity to build units so educators aren’t priced out. Business & Industry Expansion: Continental Resources signed an MOU with Venezuela’s PDVSA to develop the Ayacucho 2 heavy crude block in the Orinoco Belt, targeting first oil within about 18 months. Healthcare Budget Pressure: Montana’s state employee health insurance costs are set to jump in January as the claims pool runs low, with the union pushing to head off increases before open enrollment.