Senate Bill No. introduced by W. Galt aims to prohibit the use of motorboats and personal watercraft on Class II waters in Montana. The bill amends Section 23-2-302 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to include new legal language that explicitly states, "The use of a motorboat or a personal watercraft as defined in 23-2-502 is prohibited on class II waters." This addition clarifies the restrictions on recreational activities allowed on these waters, emphasizing that the public's right to use Class II waters does not extend to motorized watercraft without the landowner's permission.

In addition to the prohibition on motorboats and personal watercraft, the bill maintains existing limitations on recreational use of surface waters, such as restrictions on big game hunting, overnight camping, and the placement of seasonal objects without landowner consent. The bill also outlines the commission's authority to adopt rules governing recreational use in the interest of public health and safety, including procedures for limiting or prohibiting certain activities on surface waters. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the protection of Class II waters while balancing public recreational interests.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-2-302
SB0481_1(1): 23-2-302
SB0481_1(2): 23-2-302
SB0481_1: 23-2-302