This bill aims to revise laws related to navigable rivers and streams in Montana, focusing on digital mapping, hunting regulations, and the responsibilities of the state library. It mandates that all entities maintaining digital maps must update them according to the state library's standards by August 1, 2025, and subsequently within 30 days of annual updates. The bill also introduces new labeling requirements for historical locations of navigable rivers, indicating private land ownership and the need for permission to access these areas.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to impose restrictions on shooting and hunting activities on navigable rivers and islands. Specifically, it prohibits the use of firearms from watercraft for hunting big game and restricts access to state-owned islands for hunting purposes, allowing only the use of bows or crossbows unless otherwise permitted. The state library is tasked with updating its global information system map to reflect current navigable river locations and historical changes, ensuring that the public is informed about land ownership and access rights. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 23-2-302, 90-1-404
HB0240_1(1): 23-2-302, 90-1-404
HB0240_1(2): 23-2-302, 90-1-404
HB0240_1(3): 23-2-302, 90-1-404
HB0240_1(4): 23-2-302, 90-1-404
HB0240_1: 23-2-302, 90-1-404