Steve Daines

I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. Without objection, it is so ordered. The Senator from Montana. Marc Fogel

As the Senate crafts the Farm Bill, it is important to ensure that Montana's tribal ag producers and their voices are heard.

Investing in agriculture is essential for the future of our tribes.

Farming and ranching, as we all know, is truly the foundation of our economy in Montana.

There couldn't be a better answer. You just gave it. Completely solve, it is huge, this is clearly something we can address legislatively.

It fully funds the rehabilitation of the Milk River Project which is the lifeblood for our farmers and ranchers.

How important is it to finalize this last remaining water settlement in the State of Montana and have a bill that could be implemented at the State, Federal, and local level?

I am proud to say today for the first time ever we have the support of Montana's entire congressional delegation.

We invest in infrastructure to provide clean drinking water and irrigation for tribal and non-tribal members.

This bill is a result of a lot of compromise, a century or more of work.

It is a really important point, because as anybody who has dealt with water out west knows, in terms of the data, that right determines priority.

The Fort Belknap Water Rights Settlement Act is truly a win. It is a win, it is a win, it is a win for Montana.

It fully settles costly water rights litigation.

Today is historic, it really is.

The bill before us is a compromise for the State, the tribe, the Federal Government, dozens of local areas and groups.

We must work together to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples.

We urge the U.S. Senate to quickly ratify the Fort Belknap Indian Community Water Rights Settlement Act of 2023.

With inflation remaining stubbornly high I cannot help but reflect on the warning signs that were ignored by my colleagues across the aisle while they raced to push through trillions of dollars in partisan spending disguised as COVID…

I would have serious questions as to why it would.

I have heard from community banks across Montana who are justifiably concerned that they will be wrongfully punished for the actions of a few poorly regulated and poorly managed banks.

I urge you and the Fed to remain vigilant and steadfast in your effort to rein in inflation for the sake of all Americans.

This bill requires the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture to prioritize completion of the trail before 2028.

The bill has strong support from local communities, recreation groups, and more.

Completing the trail will help bring more tourism through our communities and boost local economies.

Finishing the trail will benefit communities throughout Montana, especially the gateway communities of Lincoln, Helena, Butte, and Anaconda.