In a lively session on March 15, 2025, the Montana Senate made headlines by passing House Bill 190, which designates rodeo as the official state sport. The bill, championed by Senator McKamey, received enthusiastic support from various senators who highlighted rodeo's deep roots in Montana's culture and heritage.

Senator McKamey emphasized the importance of rodeo as a representation of the state's identity, noting its family involvement and connection to the outdoors. "Rodeo shows heritage, commitment, and tenacity," he stated, urging his colleagues to support the bill. The motion passed with a vote of 39 to 11, reflecting a strong consensus among senators about the sport's significance to Montana.

However, the discussion was not without dissent. Some senators raised concerns about the exclusion of other popular activities, such as hunting and Indian relay races, from the bill. Senator Emerge pointed out that hunting has a larger participation rate in the state, while Senator Weber expressed disappointment that the Indian Relay was not included, highlighting its historical importance.

Despite these concerns, the majority of senators rallied behind the bill, viewing it as a celebration of Montana's unique western lifestyle. Senator Manzella noted that rodeo also honors animal husbandry and the care of animals involved in the sport, reinforcing the bill's cultural relevance.

In addition to the rodeo bill, the Senate also discussed House Bill 110, which aims to modernize how legislative information is accessed, moving towards electronic versions and reducing costs. This bill passed with a vote of 42 to 8, indicating a push for efficiency in legislative processes.

As the session concluded, senators acknowledged the importance of these discussions in shaping Montana's identity and ensuring that the voices of all residents are considered in legislative decisions. The passage of these bills reflects a commitment to celebrating the state's heritage while also adapting to modern needs. The Senate will reconvene on March 17, continuing its work on various legislative matters that impact the community.