_____________ joint resolution NO. _____________

INTRODUCED BY _________________________________________________

By Request of the ****

A joint resolution of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the state of montana requesting an interim study of ways to reduce inadvertent trapping of dogs.

WHEREAS, trapping animals in the state is legal under state law, is an activity pursued by many Montanans, and is a wildlife management tool; and

WHEREAS, the use of snares and other traps can inadvertently capture hunting dogs being lawfully used for the pursuit of game, and dogs being walked by their owners.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:

That the Legislative Council be requested to designate an appropriate interim committee or statutory committee, pursuant to section 5-5-217, MCA, or direct sufficient staff resources to investigate and quantify how many dogs are trapped and injured and steps that can be taken to reduce those conflicts.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the study examine how other states address the issue of trapping and dogs.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the committee review regulatory or statutory options that could be implemented to reduce the inadvertent trapping of dogs.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if the study is assigned to staff, any findings or conclusions be presented to and reviewed by an appropriate committee designated by the Legislative Council.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all aspects of the study, including presentation and review requirements, be concluded prior to September 15, 2022.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the final results of the study, including any findings, conclusions, comments, or recommendations of the appropriate committee, be reported to the 68th Legislature.