The bill proposes revisions to the business fees associated with snowmobile and motorized equipment rentals in Montana. It introduces a new $5 trail enhancement rental fee that must be paid each time a snowmobile or motorized equipment is rented from a licensed rental business in the state. This fee is intended to support the maintenance and repair of vehicles and trails used for snowmobiling. Additionally, the bill amends Section 23-2-636 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to clarify the distribution of the collected fees, ensuring that a portion is allocated for the operation of the trail grooming program and the remainder is directed to entities responsible for grooming and maintaining trails in areas where rental businesses operate.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a winter trail pass, which is necessary for operating snowmobiles or motorized equipment in designated areas. It specifies that the trail pass must be affixed to the equipment and is not transferable. The bill also includes provisions for the collection and allocation of fees, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the infrastructure for snowmobiling activities. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the experience for snowmobilers while ensuring that the necessary resources are available for trail maintenance and safety.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-2-636
SB0165_1: 23-2-636
SB0165_1(1): 23-2-636