Bill > HB74

This bill revises private fish pond and commercial fish take laws in Montana, introducing several key changes to protect fish species and regulate fish pond operations. The bill increases licensing fees for private fish ponds from $10 to $600 for applications and $10 to $250 for renewals, and introduces more stringent requirements for obtaining and maintaining fish pond licenses. Licensees who sell fish or eggs must now provide a $2,500 corporate surety bond, maintain detailed records of fish sales, and submit annual reports to the department. The bill grants the department more authority to inspect ponds, prevent the introduction of invasive species or pathogens, and potentially deny or revoke licenses if environmental risks are identified. The legislation also repeals previous provisions about paddlefish caviar sales and establishes more comprehensive rules for fish pond management, including requirements for water rights, pond design, and documentation of fish sources. The department is given expanded rulemaking authority to create specific guidelines for pond certification, inspections, and compliance strategies, with potential penalties for violations. The bill aims to enhance environmental protection and provide more robust oversight of private fish pond operations in Montana.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/20251/LC0550