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Bill

HB 661

Generally revise laws related to the unlawful harassment or harm of game animals, birds, fur-bearers, and predators

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Debo Powers

Montana bill revising wildlife protection laws for game animals, birds, and predators; died in committee without advancing to floor vote in 2025.

(H) Died in Process
#crimes #fish
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Bill Summary · HB 661

Legislative bill overview

HB 661 would revise Montana's existing laws governing the unlawful harassment, injury, or killing of game animals, birds, fur-bearers, and predators. The bill aims to update and clarify legal protections and penalties related to wildlife harm across multiple species categories. The specific substantive changes are not detailed in the available action record, making the precise scope of revision unclear from this legislative history alone.

Why is this important

Wildlife protection laws directly affect hunting regulations, ecosystem management, and enforcement of conservation policies in Montana. Changes to harassment and harm statutes can impact hunting seasons, wildlife trafficking, animal welfare standards, and the authority of Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials. These laws balance recreational hunting interests with wildlife population sustainability and environmental protection goals.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: What constitutes "unlawful harassment" versus legal hunting practices may be contentious, particularly around predator control and non-lethal harassment methods
  • Enforcement scope: Whether the bill expands or restricts enforcement authority over private land, tribal lands, and public lands could generate disagreement between conservation groups and landowners
  • Predator management philosophy: Different approaches to protecting predators versus controlling them for livestock/hunting protection often create stakeholder conflict in Montana

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

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