Montana's Senate Bill 270, introduced on February 19, 2025, aims to revise hunting regulations by adjusting the fees for various game animal tags and establishing new limits on elk hunting. This legislation is designed to enhance wildlife management and ensure sustainable hunting practices across the state.

Key provisions of SB 270 include a structured fee schedule for hunting tags, with costs set at $16 for a Class A-3 deer A tag, $10 for a Class A-4 deer B tag, $20 for an elk tag, $19 for a black bear tag, and $20 for a resident antlerless elk B tag. Additionally, the bill stipulates that hunters may not take more than three elk in a license year, with only one being antlered. These measures are intended to regulate hunting more effectively and protect elk populations, which have faced pressures from overhunting and habitat loss.

The bill has sparked discussions among stakeholders, including wildlife advocates and hunting organizations. Proponents argue that the adjusted fees and hunting limits are necessary for the conservation of Montana's wildlife, while opponents express concerns about the potential economic impact on local hunting communities and businesses that rely on hunting tourism.

If passed, SB 270 will take effect on March 1, 2026, marking a significant shift in Montana's approach to wildlife management. Experts suggest that the bill could lead to healthier game populations and a more balanced ecosystem, but the long-term effects on local economies and hunting practices remain to be seen. As the legislative process unfolds, the implications of this bill will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike.