Representative Paul Fielder introduced House Bill 95 as a department‑requested change to streamline and expand tools available to address beaver and muskrat damage to structures.

The bill would: expand the class of structures eligible for damage permits from primarily irrigation and stock‑pond infrastructure to include rural and urban structures (for example, septic systems and residential sites); clarify that owners or employees of affected entities may be authorized; and allow no‑permit removal between June 1 and August 31 in cases where beaver or muskrat are causing damage, a period the sponsor described as the animals’ dispersal season.

Quentin Kujala of Fish, Wildlife & Parks testified in support on behalf of the director, saying the change “expands the opportunity to apply a tool that works when beavers are causing damage, not just to agricultural infrastructure.” Tom Jacobson, who said he personally uses existing permits, described bank erosion and tree loss from beaver and muskrat activity and urged passage. Michael McKenrick (spelling provided on the record) also spoke in favor; the Montana Trappers Association submitted written support.

Committee members asked for clarifications. Kujala confirmed the no‑permit window (June 1–Aug. 31) is intended to allow rapid landowner response during dispersal, and he said a landowner’s permission remains required for outside trappers: a trapper operating during trapping season still must have the landowner’s consent. He also said permits remain required outside the specified June–August window and that the statutory change is intended to reduce paperwork and better protect private property.

Vice Chair Steve Hinkle moved the bill do pass. The committee approved House Bill 95 by voice vote; the clerk recorded the ayes had it and announced unanimous approval during executive action. The motion carried and HB 95 will proceed to the House floor.

Ending: Committee staff indicated additional bills will be scheduled for upcoming meetings; no amendments to HB 95 were adopted during executive action.