House Bill No. introduced by S. Rosenzweig aims to provide funding for the management of grizzly bear populations in Montana, specifically in Region 3, which encompasses several counties and a significant land area. The bill recognizes the challenges posed by an expanding grizzly bear population alongside increasing human development, leading to more frequent human-wildlife interactions. To address these challenges, the bill proposes the appropriation of $210,000 from the general license account to the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks for each fiscal year in the biennium beginning July 1, 2025. This funding is intended to support two full-time bear technician positions in Region 3, enhancing the agency's capacity to manage grizzly bear populations effectively.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the appropriations are meant to supplement the base funding for the department and that the funding for fiscal year 2027 should be considered part of the ongoing base for future legislative sessions. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. This legislative effort reflects a commitment to responsible wildlife management and the need for adequate resources to ensure the safety and coexistence of grizzly bears and human populations in the region.