Bill > HB219

This bill modifies Montana's existing law regarding hunting contests and prizes, with a specific focus on wolf hunting reimbursements. The bill expands the circumstances under which monetary prizes or reimbursements can be awarded for hunting, particularly for wolves. Specifically, it allows reimbursements for receipts of costs incurred by individuals who lawfully harvest wolves, removing previous language that restricted reimbursements to only licensed wolf hunters. The bill maintains existing provisions that generally prohibit offering prizes for hunting game animals, with some exceptions like awards for animal size, quality, or rarity, and contests with monetary prizes under $50. For violations of these hunting prize regulations, the law continues to impose potential penalties including fines between $50 and $1,000, up to 6 months in county detention, and potential forfeiture of hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses. The changes appear aimed at providing more flexibility and financial support for wolf hunters in Montana, while maintaining overall restrictions on hunting contests and prizes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3065