Bill > HB857

This bill establishes a new surcharge for hunters and anglers who lease land for hunting or fishing activities. Specifically, when applying for a conservation license, individuals must now disclose details about any land leases they plan to use, including the total annual lease payment amount, lease duration, and whether the lease is through a partnership or corporation. In addition to the standard conservation license fee, applicants will be required to pay a 10% surcharge on their share of the annual lease payment. The revenues generated from this surcharge will be directed to fund the block management program, which helps maintain and provide public access to private lands for hunting. The bill includes a significant penalty for non-compliance: individuals who fail to report their leased land or pay the surcharge may have their hunting and fishing privileges revoked for a minimum of 5 years. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and approval, and it amends the existing Montana Code Annotated section 87-2-202 related to conservation license applications.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1442