Bill > HB519

This bill modifies Montana's nonresident big game combination license system by eliminating special provisions for landowners. Specifically, the bill removes references to a previous landowner preference system for Class B-10 nonresident big game combination licenses and repeals the entire section (87-2-714) that previously governed landowner preferences. The existing preference point system remains largely unchanged, allowing nonresidents to purchase up to three preference points to increase their chances of obtaining a hunting license, with a special provision for nonresidents hunting with a licensed outfitter to purchase two preference points per year. The bill maintains the current distribution method where 75% of licenses are allocated to applicants with the most preference points and 25% are allocated to applicants with no preference points. Additionally, the bill continues the existing fee structure, with fees from second preference points being allocated to public access land agreements, hunting access programs, future fisheries projects, and purchasing permanent easements across private property. The changes will take effect on March 1, 2026, giving stakeholders time to adjust to the new licensing approach.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1301