The bill amends Section 80-7-1014 of the Montana Code Annotated to revise penalties for illegally transporting aquatic invasive species. It increases fines for various offenses: the fine for negligently violating invasive species management provisions is raised from $500 to $700 for the first offense and from $750 to $1,400 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, the fine for purposely or knowingly violating these provisions is increased from $975 to $1,950. The bill also raises the maximum fine for attempting to introduce an invasive species from $10,000 to $25,000, and it establishes a civil penalty of up to $2,500 for other violations not specifically enumerated.

Furthermore, the bill removes the option to issue a warning without penalty for violations, although it retains the provision that allows warnings if deemed in the public interest. It also introduces a new clause stating that no penalty may be issued for violations of specific provisions if clear and adequate signage is not posted near the check station. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen enforcement against the illegal transport of aquatic invasive species in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(1): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(2): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(3): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(4): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(5): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(6): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1(7): 80-7-1014
HB0242_1: 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(1): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(10): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(2): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(3): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(4): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(5): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(6): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(7): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(8): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2(9): 80-7-1014
HB0242_2: 80-7-1014
HB0242_X(1): 80-7-1014
HB0242_X(2): 80-7-1014
HB0242_X(3): 80-7-1014
HB0242_X(4): 80-7-1014
HB0242_X: 80-7-1014