Bill
LC 165
Overview: LC 165, Generally revise live fish importation laws, was introduced on September 5, 2024, but the draft died in the legislative process.Purpose and Intent: The primary go
Overview: LC 165, Generally revise live fish importation laws, was introduced on September 5, 2024, but the draft died in the legislative process.
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill was to update and streamline the laws governing the importation of live fish into the state of Montana. The legislation aimed to address concerns related to the introduction of invasive species, disease control, and the protection of native fish populations.
Key Provisions:
- Requires comprehensive health and genetic testing for all live fish imported into the state
- Establishes a permitting system for the importation of live fish, with fees to support enforcement and monitoring
- Prohibits the importation of certain high-risk species that pose a threat to Montana's aquatic ecosystems
- Grants the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks the authority to regulate and restrict live fish imports as needed
Affected Parties and Impacts: This bill would have primarily impacted commercial fish importers, aquaculture operations, and hobbyists who keep and trade live fish. The new regulations and permitting requirements would have aimed to protect Montana's natural fish populations and aquatic environments from the potential introduction of invasive species and diseases.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The draft of this bill died in the legislative process, meaning it did not advance for further consideration or potential passage. The reasons for its demise are not clear from the available information, but it is possible that the bill faced opposition or was unable to garner sufficient support during the legislative session.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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