The bill proposes to allow the issuance of mountain sheep and Shiras moose tags through a lottery system, in addition to the existing competitive auction method. Specifically, it amends Sections 87-2-722 and 87-2-724 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to include the term "lottery" alongside "auction" in the context of issuing licenses for these species. The commission will be responsible for promulgating rules for the conduct of both the auction and lottery, and wildlife conservation organizations may be authorized to manage these processes, retaining a portion of the proceeds to cover expenses.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that all proceeds from either the auction or lottery must be utilized by the department for the substantial benefit of mountain sheep and moose management. The bill also establishes a delayed effective date, with the provisions 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(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