Montana Reports Zero Measles Cases Mid‑Summer as Fires Rage and Foster Care Policy Shifts

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services confirmed no active measles cases as the state passes the mid‑point of summer, a sharp contrast to the 518 cases reported in Utah and dozens in neighboring states. Montana has recorded a total of 31 measles cases since tracking began last year, most of which occurred in the previous season.

Governor Greg Gianforte announced the elimination of the so‑called “orphan tax,” ending the practice of diverting federal survivor benefits from foster children to state budgets. The change, slated for inclusion in the November budget and effective July 1 2027, aims to preserve these funds for foster youth as they age out of care.

Wildfire activity continues in the state: the lightning‑ignited Silvertip Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness has grown to just over 4,000 acres, prompting trail closures, while the Elder 1 Fire in the Lolo National Forest’s Rock Creek drainage has expanded to more than 900 acres, with aerial suppression efforts underway.