Lobbyists weigh in on bill requiring boat stickers

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) - Boaters would need a $25 sticker to be able to access state fishing sites under a bill proposed at the Legislature.

The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports (https://bit.ly/2jIYCjZ) Montana Wildlife Federation and Montana Trout Unlimited lobbyists told lawmakers that boat stickers were a good idea but that requiring them for vehicles would be more effective.

Federation lobbyist Ben Lamb said not all anglers use boats.

Boat stickers are expected to generate $2.9 million in 2018 for maintenance and preventing invasive species.

The governor’s budget office estimates the stickers will bring in $4.4 million annually after 2018.

Republican Rep. Alan Redfield proposed the bill.

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Information from: Bozeman Daily Chronicle, https://www.bozemandailychronicle.com