Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to restrict the use of electronic motion-tracking devices and mechanisms while hunting in Montana. The bill amends Section 87-6-401 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to prohibit the use of such devices not only during hunting but also on the same calendar day that a person intends to hunt or has hunted. The definition of electronic motion-tracking devices is clarified to include any mechanism that relays information on the movement of game animals, fur-bearing animals, upland game birds, or migratory game birds to the hunter. Additionally, the bill prohibits communicating the location of these animals or birds to another person as an aid to hunting within the same day of using the tracking device.

The bill maintains existing penalties for violations, which include fines ranging from $50 to $1,000, potential imprisonment for up to six months, and possible forfeiture of hunting, fishing, or trapping licenses. The legislation emphasizes the importance of fair hunting practices and aims to preserve the integrity of wildlife management in Montana. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-6-401
SB0063_1(1): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(2): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(3): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(4): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(5): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(6): 87-6-401
SB0063_1(7): 87-6-401
SB0063_1: 87-6-401