The bill aims to expand the existing Livestock Loss Reduction and Mitigation Programs in Montana to include black bears as a species for which livestock producers can seek assistance. Key amendments include the addition of black bears in the definitions and provisions related to livestock loss caused by predation. Specifically, the bill modifies sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to ensure that the livestock loss board administers programs addressing losses from black bears alongside wolves, mountain lions, and grizzly bears. This includes establishing eligibility requirements for reimbursement and cost-sharing measures for prevention strategies against predation by these animals.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the livestock loss board, including processing claims, coordinating with various stakeholders, and establishing an annual budget for the programs. It also emphasizes the confidentiality of claimants' information and sets forth a clear process for appealing reimbursement decisions. The effective date for the implementation of these changes is set for July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance support for livestock producers facing challenges from increased predation by black bears, thereby promoting the sustainability of the livestock industry in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(1): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(2): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(3): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(4): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(5): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1(6): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_1: 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(1): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(2): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(3): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(4): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(5): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(6): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(7): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(8): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X(9): 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217
HB0356_X: 2-15-3110, 2-15-3111, 2-15-3112, 2-15-3113, 81-1-110, 87-1-217