Bill > SJ17

This bill requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to investigate resident hunter satisfaction with nonresident hunting pressure in Montana. The committee would conduct a comprehensive human dimensions study examining several key aspects, including acceptable levels of nonresident hunters and licenses, resident hunter willingness to support increased hunting license fees, and potential support for restricting hunting license allocations. The study will evaluate data from the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks related to hunting metrics, identify factors contributing to nonresident hunter overcrowding, examine initiatives from other states, and propose solutions to reduce hunting pressure, such as reducing nonresident licenses, permits, or season lengths. The committee is required to collaborate with stakeholders and the general public, and must present its findings to the Environmental Quality Council before September 15, 2026. The ultimate goal is to report final results to the 70th Legislature with introduced bills aimed at resolving resident hunter concerns about nonresident hunting pressure, while also considering potential revenue impacts on the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC4221