House Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to empower the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks with the authority to manage the collection of naturally shed antlers and horns from specific game animals, including elk, deer, and antelope, while excluding mountain sheep. The bill introduces two new license categories: a Class F-1 resident shed collecting license priced at $10 and a Class F-2 nonresident shed collecting license at $50. These licenses permit holders to collect and possess antlers and horns from animals that died naturally, with a waiting period established for nonresidents. Additionally, landowners and their immediate families are exempt from needing a license for collection on their own property.

The bill also amends various sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to incorporate new definitions and regulations regarding shed collecting. It specifies that the Department will create rules for the collection and possession of naturally shed antlers and horns, prioritizing residents over nonresidents in areas with date restrictions. Key amendments include the definition of "shed," the introduction of a "shed collecting license," and the requirement for a conservation license before applying for any hunting, fishing, or shed collecting licenses. Furthermore, the bill removes the requirement for applicants to provide the last four digits of their social security number and expands the definition of unlawful possession to include collected wildlife, thereby tightening regulations and establishing penalties for violations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance wildlife conservation and streamline the licensing process for residents.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 87-1-201, 87-1-304, 87-2-101, 87-2-106, 87-2-201, 87-2-202, 87-6-202, 87-6-206
HB0353_1(1): 87-1-201, 87-1-304, 87-2-101, 87-2-106, 87-2-201, 87-2-202, 87-6-202, 87-6-206
HB0353_1: 87-1-201, 87-1-304, 87-2-101, 87-2-106, 87-2-201, 87-2-202, 87-6-202, 87-6-206