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Committee passes bill naming rodeo Montana’s official state sport
Summary
After testimony from dozens of proponents — including youth competitors, tribal representatives, rodeo professionals and tourism organizations — the House State Administration committee voted by voice to pass House Bill 190, which designates rodeo as the official state sport and now advances to the House floor.
Representative Greg Overstreet opened House Bill 190 by framing rodeo as an expression of Montana’s heritage and saying the designation carries no fiscal cost. The committee heard an extended series of proponent testimonies that emphasized rodeo’s cultural importance, educational pathways and local economic benefits.
Witnesses included youth competitors, a Little Miss Rodeo titleholder and several rodeo professionals and organizers. Elena Hutchings, who identified herself as "Little Miss Rodeo Universe," described fundraising for children’s hospitals. David Whitmore, a rodeo entertainer, highlighted media reach and tourism figures, saying rodeo performances and related broadcasting provide substantial audience exposure and local revenue. Tribal speakers connected rodeo participation to cultural continuity and high-school programs that offer scholarships.
Support also came from trade and tourism groups: the Montana Chamber of Commerce and Montana Lodging and Hospitality Association told the committee rodeos fill hotel rooms and support small-town businesses. The Office of Public Instruction conveyed that student involvement in activities correlates with improved educational outcomes and said the superintendent considered the department a proponent.
Executive action: Representative Marta Bertolio moved that HB190 do pass; the committee conducted a voice vote and the chair announced 'the ayes have it.' The committee recorded that House Bill 190 passes and will advance to the House floor.
What it does and next steps: HB190 is a designation bill that names rodeo as the state sport of Montana; sponsors and witnesses characterized it as symbolic recognition of heritage and community. The committee approved the bill and it will proceed to the House for further consideration.
