Tom Kuglin

While people many find inspiration in beautiful landscapes and wildlife, few have seen them as up close and personal as photographer Tony Bynum.

The bill mandates an increase to state employees’ base salaries for each of the next two fiscal years of $1.50 or 4%, whichever is higher.

Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras issued an official denial recently in response to an ethics complaint filed by state Democrats.

The groups allege USDA Wildlife Services failed to use the best available science on impacts to threatened grizzly bears, particularly bears dispersing from recovery zones.

Penalties could include a fine of $500-$1,000, up to six months in jail, or both.

FWP Director Hank Worsech testified in “light” opposition to the bill, saying the agency has seen a drop from nearly 800 volunteer instructors in 2019 to about 400 today.

The proposal calls for $1 billion to be placed in sustainable funds that could provide loan or grant programs.

Debate over crossbows during archery season has occurred 10 times in the Legislature, multiple times at the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission and is the subject of federal litigation.

Several bills addressing fish and game and access policies were debated in the days leading up to the transmittal deadline for the state Legislature.

House Bill 551 carried by Rep. Casey Knudsen, R-Malta, proposes amending the state Constitution’s language on the “Right to bear arms.”