_____________ bill NO. _____________

INTRODUCED BY _________________________________________________

By Request of the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

A BILL FOR AN ACT ENTITLED: "AN ACT removing the requirement that the upland game bird enhancement program fund bird releases; AMENDING SECTION 87-1-247, MCA; and PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE."

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:

Section 1. Section 87-1-247, MCA, is amended to read:

"87-1-247. Upland game bird enhancement program -- authorized use of funds. (1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3) subsection (2), revenue dedicated to the upland game bird enhancement program pursuant to 87-1-246 must be used by the department to:

(a)        prepare and disseminate information to landowners and organizations concerning the upland game bird enhancement program;

(b)        review potential upland game bird release sites;

(c)        assist applicants in preparing management plans for project areas;

(d)        evaluate the upland game bird enhancement program;

(e)        develop a strategic plan pursuant to 87-1-251(2)(a);

(f) pursuant to subsection (2), release upland game birds in suitable habitat;

(g)(f)    develop, enhance, and conserve upland game bird habitat in Montana; and

(h)(g)   establish and assist an upland game bird citizens' advisory council pursuant to 87-1-251.

(2) (a) At least 15% of the funds collected under 87-1-246 must be set aside each fiscal year for expenditures related to upland game bird releases.

(b) At least 25% of the funds set aside for upland game bird releases must be spent each year.

(3)(2)    As far as practicable, expenditures made pursuant to subsection (1) must be prioritized by administrative region based on need, taking into consideration any biological, recreational, or economic benefit and the objectives established in a strategic plan developed pursuant to 87-1-251(2)(a)."

NEW SECTION. Section 2. Effective date. [This act] is effective on passage and approval.