WeVote

Bill

Bill

LC 1407

Generally revise public lands and river access laws

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill to overhaul public lands and river access laws died before formal introduction; aimed to reshape recreation, property rights, and resource management policies.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 1407

Legislative bill overview

LC 1407 is a Montana bill intended to comprehensively revise state laws governing public lands and river access rights. The bill died in the legislative process in May 2025 without advancing to formal introduction or committee consideration.

Why is this important

Public lands and river access policies directly affect hunting, fishing, recreation, property rights, and conservation in Montana. Comprehensive revisions to these laws can reshape how Montanans and visitors interact with the state's natural resources and determine the balance between public access and private property protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Public vs. private property rights: Revisions to river access laws often pit recreational access interests against private landowner rights, a persistent tension in Montana
  • Scope of "public lands" coverage: Changes could affect management of state-owned lands, potentially impacting grazing, timber, mining, and conservation policies
  • Implementation and enforcement: New regulations require clear definitions and adequate funding to enforce access rules and prevent conflicts

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

Sign in to ask a question.