The proposed "Montana Hunters First Act" aims to address the impacts of nonresident hunting on deer and elk populations in Montana. The bill mandates the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to conduct a comprehensive study assessing nonresident hunting effects, utilizing various data sources such as hunter days, harvest reporting, and population trends. The findings of this study, which must be published by December 1, 2026, will include a detailed analysis of nonresident impacts and recommendations for legislative consideration.

Additionally, the bill introduces mandatory reporting requirements for hunters of game animals, stipulating that individuals must report their hunting activities before being eligible to purchase a new hunting license for the following year. The Department is granted rulemaking authority to establish reporting systems and deadlines. The act includes provisions for effective dates, with most sections becoming effective upon passage, while the reporting requirement will take effect on March 1, 2026. The study section is set to terminate on December 31, 2026.