Bill > SB83

This bill amends Montana's existing law to expand the Fish and Wildlife Commission's rulemaking authority by explicitly allowing the commission to adopt rules governing public use of private property that is under an active public access agreement between the department and private landowners. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 87-1-301 of Montana Code Annotated by adding a new provision that requires the commission to adopt rules based on individual landowners' preferences for how their private property can be used when that property is being managed by the department under a public access agreement. This change gives the commission the formal power to regulate public conduct on private lands where landowners have voluntarily agreed to provide public access, which was previously not clearly outlined in the law. The bill provides immediate effect upon passage, meaning the new rulemaking authority will take effect as soon as the bill is signed into law. This modification aims to provide more clarity and flexibility in managing public access to private lands while respecting individual landowners' preferences and ensuring proper oversight of public recreational activities on these properties.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0509