Montana lawmakers have progressed two bills to amend recreational marijuana tax allocations as the legislative session nears its end. These bills seek to adjust the funding set for conservation efforts outlined post-legalization. The legislative changes aim to fine-tune how marijuana tax revenues support environmental initiatives, reflecting ongoing debates within the state legislature.
House Bill 932 and Senate Bill 537 have both cleared significant legislative hurdles. These bills propose a habitat legacy account utilizing marijuana revenue for land conservation projects like invasive species control and wildlife crossings. While both support conservation, SB 537 adjusts other tax distributions, unlike HB 932, which leaves them unchanged.
The bills follow the defeat of Senate Bill 307, which intended to redirect marijuana funds away from conservation to address substance abuse and law enforcement. This proposal was rejected by the Senate Finance and Claims Committee, highlighting the contentious nature of funding allocations.
HOUSE BILL 932
Rep. Ken Walsh introduced HB 932, highlighting its aim to simplify conservation funding for private landowners and governmental bodies. The habitat legacy account would channel 75% of funds to land and wildlife stewardship, with the remainder supporting wildlife improvement projects and crossings. HB 932 garners support from varied conservation groups and aims to bolster existing initiatives like Habitat Montana.
Lena Havron from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks supports HB 932, emphasizing its broad application for habitat conservation. However, opposition exists, such as from Amy Adler, who seeks more focus on noxious weed management. The bill continues to evolve through legislative amendments and discussions.
SENATE BILL 537
Senator Daniel Zolnikov’s SB 537 seeks to establish a balanced conservation and law enforcement funding model. Unlike HB 932, SB 537 reallocates funds from the General Fund to address substance abuse, homelessness, and enhance law enforcement capabilities. It maintains a 32% allocation for conservation, with strategic redistribution to other critical areas.
The bill draws support from conservation advocates who praise its flexible approach to sustainable funding. Testimonies during the legislative process emphasize the need for collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance Montana’s environmental and social programs.
Ultimately, these bills illustrate the ongoing negotiation between funding conservation efforts and meeting broader state priorities such as law enforcement and public health.
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