Montana’s House floor saw two controversial bills aiming to reduce the wolf population face mixed success this week, with heavy opposition from Republicans. Rep. Lukas Schubert’s House Bill 222 aimed to authorize an open wolf hunting season until the population reaches 650, but ultimately failed to pass due to a 40-60 vote. Another bill, Rep. Shannon Maness’ House Bill 176, was amended to make it optional for Montana wildlife managers to implement an unlimited hunting and trapping season for wolves above 550. Despite some Republicans attributing changes in elk and deer populations to wolves, Democrats criticized the focus on reducing the wolf population. Rep. Marilyn Marler expressed concern about the impact on hunters’ reputation. The bills highlight the ongoing debate over wolf management in Montana, with HB 176 passing in a preliminary vote and set for a final House vote on Monday. The issue remains divisive among lawmakers and stakeholders.
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