By MATT GOURAS, Associated Press
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Legislature is fast-tracking a proposal to expand the state’s wolf hunt.
The Senate on Thursday suspended its rules to quickly take a final vote on the measure so that it can take effect before this year’s season closes.
The bill next goes to Gov. Steve Bullock, who indicated on Thursday he supports the measure.
House Bill 73 lets the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks increase the number of wolves one hunter can take. It also allows electronic calls and removes a requirement to wear hunter orange outside of general deer and elk season.
Hunters and trappers so far this season have killed fewer than 200 wolves. Wildlife officials are hoping to reduce the animals’ population from an estimated 650 wolves to around 450.