MONTANA: State lawmakers float bills to crack down on blocking public land access
Greenwire: Monday, January 26, 2015
Montana lawmakers have introduced a pair of bills targeting landowners who illegally block access to public lands.
The bills come as tensions have heated up in court between private landowners and outdoor enthusiasts. In order to access public lands, recreationists often have to cross private roads, which some landowners frown upon.
"This bill will clarify language in our state laws, raise the penalty for failing to remove an obstacle, and ultimately solve disputes over access quickly and fairly for everyone involved," said Democratic state Rep. Mitch Tropila.
Wildlife and public access groups support the bills, while most ranchers and private property groups oppose it.
John Gibson, president of the Public Land/Water Access Association, said the bills will make it easier for the public to access public lands.
"In some cases, these closures are done by outfitters who are privatizing not only the public land behind the gate but also our cherished public wildlife, and that's wrong," Gibson said ( AP/Billings Gazette, Jan. 25). -- MH
