WeVote

Bill

Bill

LC 3356

Provide statutory appropriation for aquatic and wildlife research

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill to create dedicated statutory funding for aquatic and wildlife research died in drafting stage before legislative consideration.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 3356

Legislative bill overview

LC 3356 would establish a statutory appropriation to fund aquatic and wildlife research in Montana. The bill died in the legislative process on May 20, 2025, before advancing beyond the draft stage, meaning it did not receive a floor vote or committee hearing.

Why is this important

Statutory appropriations create dedicated, ongoing funding streams that don't require annual legislative reauthorization, providing research programs with budgetary stability. Montana's aquatic and wildlife research informs management decisions affecting fisheries, habitat conservation, and outdoor recreation—sectors with significant economic and ecological importance to the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: Questions about whether dedicated funding is appropriate versus annual appropriations, which allow legislators greater annual budget control
  • Scope and priority: Disagreement over which research areas should be prioritized and whether funding levels are adequate or excessive
  • Implementation oversight: Concerns about how research priorities would be set and whether the appropriation includes sufficient accountability measures

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

Sign in to ask a question.