The bill revises hunting laws in Montana to enhance accessibility for disabled persons, particularly regarding the use of crossbows. It allows disabled hunters to hunt independently or with an unlicensed companion and establishes a permit system for crossbow use, which includes a $10 fee and requires a physician's certification of a permanent disability. The commission is empowered to set rules on permissible crossbows and accessories, and it must report on permit issuance and hunter survey results. Additionally, the bill outlines conditions under which crossbow permits may be denied, such as potential harm to wildlife populations or negative impacts on the archery season, and provides a process for appealing permit denials.

Moreover, the bill amends existing hunting license and education requirements, introducing an adult hunter safety course and a crossbow safety course, while ensuring public notification of these requirements. It specifies that active duty military members must complete an approved hunter safety course to obtain a hunting license and mandates proof of completion for a bow and arrow license. The legislation also offers reduced-price hunting licenses for individuals with disabilities and veterans, establishes guidelines for hunting from vehicles for disabled individuals, and includes a severability clause along with a termination date of June 30, 2027, to maintain the validity of remaining provisions if any part of the act is invalidated.

Statutes affected:
SB0298_1.pdf: 37-3-203, 87-1-301, 87-2-105, 87-2-803, 87-2-817
SB0298_2.pdf: 37-3-203, 87-1-301, 87-2-105, 87-2-803, 87-2-817
Amended: 37-3-203, 87-1-301, 87-2-105, 87-2-803, 87-2-817
Introduced: 37-3-203, 87-1-301, 87-2-105, 87-2-803, 87-2-817