Stream Access passes the House
I am pleased to let you know that HB 190, allowing stream access at county roads and bridges, has passed the House committee of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, and passed the 3rd reading in the House. The bill now is now transmitted to the Senate.
HB 190, of which I am a co-sponsor, has had strong support from Republicans and Democrats alike. Montanans have always had the right, or privilege, to access our rivers and streams and HB190 does not change or alter this part of Montana law. This stream access bill is very simple and offers advantages to property owners and sportsmen.
The bill makes it clear that landowners may attach their fence to a county bridge to control livestock so long as they provide reasonable means for the public to access. Types of access include ladders, stalls, gates and other inexpensive common sense access that will be paid for by FWP and various sportsman interest groups. This bill not only allows property owners to legally attach fences to county bridges, it offers relief from liability for doing so. So this bill really is win-win policy.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at your convenience.
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