Mental Health Care in Court: A Yellowstone County judge halted construction of Montana’s proposed Laurel forensic mental health facility, citing unresolved water and requiring a new environmental review and public comment. Crisis Response Funding: The Montana Opioid Abatement Trust approved $777,361 for Gallatin Mobile Crisis to expand emergency mental health response and ease pressure on law enforcement and hospitals. Youth Safety Online: Montana is set to receive at least $89 million (up to $127 million) from a landmark $17.1B multistate Meta settlement, with required changes to Instagram and Facebook aimed at reducing harms to minors. Public Health Alerts: Cascade County confirmed its first West Nile Virus positive mosquito sample of 2026, urging residents to prevent bites. Food Safety: Walmart shoppers in Montana are warned about a Class I recall of Bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter due to Salmonella contamination. Healthcare Costs: Montana state employees face higher healthcare costs next year, including premium and deductible increases. Community Health Access: Big Timber’s public library added an AED plus Stop-the-Bleed and naloxone to improve emergency response. Local Wellness & Prevention: A Glendive e-waste collection event is set for Sept. 12, with electronics accepted only at this drop-off site.