Matt Volz

Author's posts

GOP’s Tim Sheehy Revives Discredited Abortion Claims in Pivotal Senate Race

In Montana’s U.S. Senate race, Republican Tim Sheehy made the false claim that his Democratic opponent, incumbent Sen. Jon Tester, supports abortion “up to and including the moment of birth.”

Montana’s Effort to Expand Religious Exemptions to Vaccines Prompts Political Standoff

The dispute between state lawmakers and health department officials could delay a broader package of child care licensing changes until 2025.

States Reconsider Religious Exemptions for Vaccinations in Child Care

Providers and health care advocates warn a proposed rule change in Montana would jeopardize immunity levels in child care centers and communities. Efforts to change vaccination exemption rules are underway in other states, too.

More States OK Postpartum Medicaid Coverage Beyond Two Months

Montana, Alaska, Mississippi, Missouri, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming are among the latest states moving to provide health coverage for up to a year after pregnancy through the federal-state health insurance program for low-income people.

More States to Consider Extending Postpartum Medicaid Coverage Beyond Two Months

Fifteen states haven’t moved to extend Medicaid coverage for new moms beyond the minimum of 60 days after birth. But at least four of those holdout states — Montana, Wyoming, Missouri, and Mississippi — are expected to consider proposals to extend coverage in their upcoming legislative sessions.

5 Things to Know About Montana’s ‘Born Alive’ Ballot Initiative

A ballot measure that seeks to protect infants following failed abortions would impose stiff penalties on health care providers in Montana.

Montana Health Department Seeks to Ax Board That Hears Public Assistance Appeals

Applicants for cash, food, and health care assistance would need to go to court to appeal rejections if the Montana legislature approves a proposal to eliminate the Board of Public Assistance.

Hospitals Refused to Give Patients Ivermectin. Lockdowns and Political Pressure Followed.

Hospitals in Montana and Idaho reported threats and harassment from public officials and family members of patients who were denied treatment with a drug not authorized to treat covid-19.

Our Covid Cocoon: The Parents Aren’t Alright (But Help May Be Coming)

After experiencing multiple quarantines and school closures in less than two months, covid vaccine approvals for 5- to 11-year-olds can’t come soon enough for a KHN editor in Montana.

5 Things to Know About Health Care Changes in Montana

The covid pandemic drove major changes to Montana health policies, including the permanent expansion of telehealth regulations, a pullback on local public health officials’ authority and the easing of vaccination requirements for workers and students.