HB 309: Last Chance to Vote NO

MONTANA—Tomorrow, Montana’s State Senate Committee meets to decide on controversial HB 309 legislation, which could threaten recreational stream access based on what constitutes irrigation ditches vs. natural waterways. Fishing Outfitters Association of Montana (FOAM) is encouraging all interested parties—in state and out—to voice their collective concerns.

“On Tuesday a State Senate committee will gather to pass HB 309. This is a bill that seeks to alter the current stream access laws in Montana. This bill has been proposed by a select few landowners in one region of Montana, yet has the potential to change fly fishing in this state as we know it today. Basically, this bill could make it illegal to wade or float through various river channels. This would impact virtually every river or stream in Montana. One of the unique and amazing aspects of fishing in this state is that the rivers are truly public. This bill could be a complete game changer. Please read below. If this strikes you as a concern worth your time, please consider writing a brief paragraph explaining how this bill might impact you experiences when coming to Montana, and please urge them to vote NO on this wretched idea. Even if you are out of state, there is every reason to be concerned.”

 

Download the bill, here. 

Senate Agriculture, Livestock & Irrigation Committee Members and contact info:

Sen. Donald Steinbeisser (R, Sidney): donstein@midrivers.com

Sen. Gary Branae (D, Billings): garybranae@gmail.com

Sen. Taylor Brown (R, Huntley): taylor@northernbroadcasting.com

Sen. Bob Hawks (D, Bozeman): senator.robert.hawks@gmail.com

Sen. Rowlie Hutton (R, Havre): hutton4senate@yahoo.com

Sen. Cliff Larson (D, Missoula): cliff@larsenusa.com

Sen. Eric Moore (R, Miles City): mail@senatorericmoore.com

Sen. Terry Moore (R, Cardwell): murphter5@yahoo.com

Sen. Rick Ripley (R, Wolf Creek): (406) 562-3502

Sen. Sharon Stewart-Peregoy (D, Crow Agency): apsaalookewomen@yahoo.com

Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy (D, Box Elder): windyboy_j@yahoo.com

Any legislator may be contacted via an online form, here.

 

Source Link