This bill amends Section 87-1-304 of the Montana Code Annotated to establish new regulations regarding the hunting seasons for upland game birds. Specifically, it requires the Fish and Wildlife Commission to allow residents to begin hunting all upland game birds, including ring-necked pheasants, 10 days prior to nonresidents, with the exception of mountain grouse. The bill also provides a definition for "mountain grouse," which includes blue grouse, spruce grouse, and ruffed grouse.

Additionally, the bill includes a delayed effective date, set for March 1, 2026. This change aims to prioritize resident hunters in the upland game bird hunting season while maintaining specific regulations for mountain grouse. The overall intent is to enhance hunting opportunities for residents and manage wildlife resources effectively.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-1-304
SB0514_1(1): 87-1-304
SB0514_1(2): 87-1-304
SB0514_1(3): 87-1-304
SB0514_1(4): 87-1-304
SB0514_1(5): 87-1-304
SB0514_1(6): 87-1-304
SB0514_1: 87-1-304
SB0514_2(1): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(10): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(11): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(12): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(13): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(14): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(2): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(3): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(4): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(5): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(6): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(7): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(8): 87-1-304
SB0514_2(9): 87-1-304
SB0514_2: 87-1-304
SB0514_X(1): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(2): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(3): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(4): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(5): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(6): 87-1-304
SB0514_X(7): 87-1-304
SB0514_X: 87-1-304