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Bill

LC 2695

Increase DNRC fire assessment fees

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill increases DNRC fire assessment fees on property owners and operators to fund expanded wildfire prevention and forest management programs.

(LC) Draft Ready for Delivery
#firesandfireprotection #revenue #state
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Bill Summary · LC 2695

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 2695 proposes to increase the fire assessment fees charged by Montana's Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The bill is currently in the drafting phase and has not yet been introduced to either legislative chamber for formal consideration. Specific details about the magnitude of the fee increase and its intended use are not yet publicly available in the draft stage.

Why is this important

Fire assessment fees directly impact property owners, timber operators, and landowners who must pay them, potentially affecting land management costs and rural economies. Changes to these fees influence funding available for wildfire prevention, suppression, and forest management programs that protect communities and natural resources across Montana.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on landowners: Increased fees may disproportionately affect rural property owners, small forestry operations, and agricultural businesses already facing rising operational costs
  • Funding justification: Stakeholders may question whether fee increases are necessary or if existing DNRC budgets are being managed efficiently
  • Scope and transparency: Questions about how the increased revenue will be allocated and whether new fees apply uniformly across all property types and regions

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

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