New law shields wildlife location data from public view — but where’s the line?
Montana’s right to know is a cornerstone of our state’s democracy, guaranteeing access to public documents. But every year, the Legislature debates the contours of that access — what should and should not be open to public inspection. One of the quieter but still consequential examples this year is House Bill 264, which revises Montana’s right to know laws to exempt certain wildlife location data from public disclosure.
Signed into law by Gov. Greg Gianforte this spring, HB 264 was sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Karlen, D-Missoula. The bill amends Montana Code Annotated § 2-6-1003, which governs exceptions to public disclosure, by adding language that prevents disclosure by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks of the location data or telemetry frequencies of hunted or trapped animals.
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
