For multiple legislative sessions we’ve seen persistent and numerous attacks on wildlife, habitat and on the authority of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
This session is a lot different. Things are slower – and that’s a good thing. The Montana Wildlife Federation and our conservation partners have worked hard over the last few years to beat back bad wildlife laws. In addition, Montana FWP is sound financially, thanks to a hunting and fishing license bill passed last session that standardized the numerous free and reduced priced licenses, and made reforms to the agency’s finances. In a tough budget session like 2017, we’re fortunate that FWP isn’t asking for additional funding.
That said, there were some bill hearings last week. MWF was there to make the voice of hunters, anglers, and other wildlife conservationists heard.
HATCHERY CHANGES
Last week, MWF supported HB 214, sponsored by Rep. Bob Brown, R-Thompson Falls. It would lift a restriction on the number of fish produced at the Fort Peck Hatchery. This was a basic change needed to get more fish out of the facility, and was supported by Walleyes Unlimited.
BILLS MOVING FORWARD
Several bills heard in the past weeks have finally moved out of committee. They include HB 108, Allocate wild buffalo license for tribal purposes and HB 128, Revise waiting period for bighorn sheep licenses.
In addition, several bills have come out of their respective chamber, and are moving forward by being sent over to the other legislative body. Those include HB 98, Revise classifications of striped skunk, civet cat, spotted skunk; HB 150, Clarify FWP residency requirement for armed forces member, spouse and dependent; SB 52, Clarify additional penalties for hunting with artificial light; and SB 84, Extend the paddlefish roe donation program.
LOOKING AHEAD
MWF continues to stay engaged in bills that are being debated. That includes testifying, but also suggesting amendments and working to ensure that any changes benefit wildlife, habitat and Montana hunters and anglers.
A couple bills will also be heard for the first time this week. They include HB 204, sponsored by Rep. Alan Redfield, R-Livingston, to provide new funding for maintenance of fishing access sites; and HB 228, by Jim Keane, D-Butte, Provide funding for sage-grouse stewardship.
To get the latest information on bills, go to the MWF Bill Tracker. In addition, contact MWF Conservation Director Nick Gevock at ngevock@mtwf.org or by calling 406-458-0227 ext. 108.
