This bill amends Sections 87-2-722 and 87-2-724 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to allow for the issuance of mountain sheep and Shiras moose licenses through a lottery system, in addition to the existing competitive auction method. Specifically, the language in both sections is updated to include the option for a lottery, stating that the commission may issue one male mountain sheep and one male Shiras moose license each year through either a competitive auction or lottery. The commission is tasked with promulgating rules for the conduct of these auctions or lotteries, and wildlife conservation organizations may be authorized to conduct them, retaining up to 10% of the proceeds for reasonable expenses.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that all proceeds from either the auction or lottery must be used by the department for the substantial benefit of mountain sheep and moose management. The department is also required to report the use or investment of these proceeds to the office of budget and program planning. The act is set to take effect on March 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(1): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(10): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(11): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(12): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(2): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(3): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(4): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(5): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(6): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(7): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(8): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1(9): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_1: 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_X(1): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_X(2): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_X(3): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_X(4): 87-2-722, 87-2-724
HB0283_X: 87-2-722, 87-2-724