Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws regarding the use of aircraft while hunting in Montana. The bill amends Section 87-3-126 to allow the use of both manned and unmanned aircraft for herding, driving, or hazing wild animals that are damaging private property, provided that a permit is issued by the department. The bill also specifies that permits cannot be issued during legal hunting seasons for the species in question, except for elk shoulder seasons.

Additionally, Section 87-6-208 is amended to clarify the unlawful use of aircraft in hunting. The bill prohibits individuals from using aircraft to spot or locate game animals for hunting on the same day, and it expands the definition of unlawful aircraft use to include actions that intentionally interfere with hunting activities. New provisions are added to address landing an aircraft without permission on private property and to outline penalties for violations, which include fines and potential forfeiture of hunting licenses. The bill also specifies exceptions to these rules during emergencies, search and rescue operations, and when supporting agricultural operations.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-3-126, 87-6-208
SB0106_1(1): 87-3-126, 87-6-208
SB0106_1(2): 87-3-126, 87-6-208
SB0106_1(3): 87-3-126, 87-6-208
SB0106_1(4): 87-3-126, 87-6-208
SB0106_1: 87-3-126, 87-6-208