House Bill No. introduced by C. Cochran amends Section 87-5-605 of the Montana Code Annotated to enhance the powers and duties of the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The bill allows the department to create and promote a statewide Crimestoppers program aimed at combating fish, wildlife, and parks-related crimes. It emphasizes the importance of public involvement in reporting such crimes and encourages the establishment of local programs, including neighborhood watch initiatives. A significant addition to the department's capabilities is the provision that enables it to offer financial rewards, reward permits, or other incentives to the public for information that aids in the prosecution of these crimes. This new incentive structure is designed to foster greater public participation and support for law enforcement efforts in protecting Montana's natural resources. The bill also retains existing provisions that allow the department to accept donations and adopt necessary rules for program administration.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-5-605
HB0134_1(1): 87-5-605
HB0134_1(2): 87-5-605
HB0134_1(3): 87-5-605
HB0134_1(4): 87-5-605
HB0134_1(5): 87-5-605
HB0134_1(6): 87-5-605
HB0134_1: 87-5-605