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LC 158

Generally revise funding for Aquatic Invasive Species Program

2025 Regular Session

Summary of Legislative Bill LC 158: Generally Revise Funding for Aquatic Invasive Species Program Purpose and IntentThis draft bill aims to modify the funding mechanisms and source

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 158

Summary of Legislative Bill LC 158: Generally Revise Funding for Aquatic Invasive Species Program

Purpose and Intent

This draft bill aims to modify the funding mechanisms and sources for Montana's Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program, which is responsible for preventing the introduction and spread of harmful non-native aquatic species within the state.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following changes:

  1. Increase in AIS Prevention Pass Fees: The bill would raise the cost of the mandatory AIS prevention pass required for watercraft users from $30 to $40 for residents and from $40 to $60 for non-residents.

  2. New AIS Surcharge on Hydroelectric Facilities: The bill would establish a new annual surcharge of $5,000 per megawatt of electricity generation capacity on all commercial hydroelectric facilities operating in Montana. This revenue would be dedicated to the AIS program.

  3. Allocation of Accommodation Tax Revenues: The bill would allocate 5% of the state's Lodging Facility Use Tax (also known as the "Accommodation Tax") to the AIS program, up from the current 2.5% dedication.

  4. Expansion of Watercraft Inspection Stations: The bill directs the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks department to establish at least 10 additional watercraft inspection stations across the state to monitor for and prevent the introduction of AIS.

Affected Parties and Impacts

The proposed changes would impact the following groups:

  • Recreational Boaters and Anglers: The higher AIS prevention pass fees would increase costs for Montana residents and non-residents who use watercraft on the state's lakes, rivers and reservoirs.
  • Hydroelectric Facility Operators: The new $5,000 per megawatt surcharge would increase operating costs for commercial hydroelectric power producers in Montana.
  • State and Local Tourism Industries: The increased Accommodation Tax revenues dedicated to AIS prevention efforts could benefit Montana's tourism economy by protecting the state's waterways.
  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: The department would receive additional dedicated funding to expand its aquatic invasive species monitoring and prevention activities.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

As a draft bill, LC 158 did not advance beyond the initial introduction stage and died in the legislative process. If enacted, the provisions of the bill would have gone into effect at the start of the next fiscal year following passage.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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