The bill amends Section 87-6-107 of the Montana Code Annotated to revise the laws concerning the unlawful harassment of animals with a vehicle or device. The term "game animals and game birds" is replaced with "animals," broadening the scope of the law to include all animals rather than just game species. The bill specifies that individuals are prohibited from using vehicles or devices to harass or impede the movement of animals, with certain exceptions for landowners and their authorized agents who are herding, driving, corralling, or controlling their livestock.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations of this section. A first offense can result in fines ranging from $50 to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, along with potential forfeiture of hunting, fishing, or trapping licenses. For subsequent violations within five years, the fines increase to a minimum of $500, and offenders face a mandatory 24-month forfeiture of their licenses, unless a longer period is imposed by the court.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-6-107