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LC 3323

Provide for ballot initiative to allow corner crossing

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill proposes voter ballot initiative to legalize crossing private land corners to access public lands, balancing recreation access against property rights.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
#ballotissues(seealso:elections) #property #statelands
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Bill Summary · LC 3323

Legislative bill overview

LC 3323 proposes to place a ballot initiative before Montana voters that would legalize "corner crossing"—the practice of briefly crossing onto private land at the corners where four property parcels meet to access public lands beyond. The bill itself doesn't enact corner crossing; rather, it seeks to create a mechanism for voters to decide the issue directly through a statewide ballot measure.

Why is this important

Corner crossing has become a contentious issue in Western states where public lands are often surrounded by private property, effectively blocking public access. A ballot initiative would bypass the legislature and let Montana voters directly weigh landowner property rights against public recreational access to federal lands. The outcome could significantly impact hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities while affecting private property rights and land management practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public access: Landowners argue corner crossing violates their property rights, while sportsmen and recreationalists argue existing public lands are inaccessible without it
  • Federal lands management: Unclear how corner crossing on state/private lands relates to federal land management and whether federal law would preempt state ballot initiatives
  • Liability and trespassing: Questions remain about landowner liability, how crossing would be regulated, and enforcement mechanisms if approved

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

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