Bill > LC0629

This bill proposes revisions to Montana's winter trail pass regulations for snowmobiles, dog sleds, and motorized equipment used in groomed snow areas. The key changes include introducing a new $5 trail pass fee specifically for snowmobile rentals, with the entire rental fee dedicated to the statewide snowmobile trail grooming program. The bill maintains existing fee structures of $20 for Montana-registered snowmobiles or resident users and $35 for non-resident or unregistered equipment. Trail passes remain non-transferable and must be affixed conspicuously to the vehicle or rental proof. The bill clarifies that personal information collected during trail pass application cannot be made public but may be used for user studies. Exemptions from trail pass requirements continue to include participants in sanctioned dog sled races and certain motorized equipment. The bill also preserves existing penalties for failing to display a trail pass or making false statements in obtaining one, which remains a misdemeanor with fines ranging from $40 to $100. The legislation maintains the existing breakdown of fee allocations, including vendor remittance, law enforcement support, and trail grooming program funding.

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/lc/bill/2/LC0629