The proposed bill establishes the Montana Hunters and Anglers Community Fund and Grant Program, aimed at supporting rural communities that provide hunting and fishing opportunities. It allows individuals to donate a minimum of $1 when purchasing a wildlife conservation license, with funds collected being transferred to a state special revenue account managed by the Department of Commerce. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for grant applicants, which include local or tribal governments, school districts, and nonprofit organizations from communities with populations under 7,500. It specifies that grant funds cannot be used for marketing or political activities and introduces a requirement that entities receiving grants must not be involved in any legal lawsuits.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to authorize a statutory appropriation of the funds in the newly established account, ensuring that the Department of Commerce can utilize these funds for administrative costs and grant distribution. The bill also includes provisions for the creation of a grant review board composed of appointed members from various backgrounds, and it sets a termination date for the act of June 30, 2027. The effective date of the act is set for July 1, 2023, replacing the previously proposed date of March 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
HB0383_1.pdf: 17-7-502
HB0383_2.pdf: 17-7-502
HB0383_3.pdf: 17-7-502
Amended: 17-7-502
Introduced: 17-7-502