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HB 354

Revise penalties for criminal trespass while fishing, trapping, hunting, or collecting antlers/sheds/horns

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jill Cohenour

Montana revises criminal trespass penalties for hunting, fishing, trapping, and shed collection to strengthen property protections and clarify enforcement standards.

Chapter Number Assigned
#crimes #fishandwildlife
0
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Bill Summary · HB 354

Legislative bill overview

HB 354 revises Montana's penalties for criminal trespass when committed while engaging in fishing, trapping, hunting, or collecting antlers, sheds, or horns. The bill modifies sentencing guidelines and potentially other legal consequences for individuals caught trespassing on private property while pursuing these outdoor activities.

Why is this important

Montana's outdoor recreation and wildlife management depend heavily on respecting property boundaries, and this bill clarifies legal consequences for violations. The penalty revisions could affect landowner protections, enforcement priorities, and how hunters and anglers navigate access issues—a recurring tension in rural communities where public land access is limited.

Potential points of contention

  • Landowner concerns: Whether penalties are sufficient to deter persistent trespassers, particularly those accessing private land for valuable resources like elk sheds or trophy hunting
  • Hunting/fishing community impact: Whether penalty increases disproportionately affect casual or accidental trespassing versus intentional poaching, potentially discouraging legitimate outdoor participation
  • Enforcement consistency: How local sheriffs and fish-and-game enforcement will apply revised penalties and whether resources exist for adequate prosecution

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

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