BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF FISH, WILDLIFE AND PARKS

OF THE STATE OF MONTANA

 

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 12.3.403 pertaining to replacement licenses

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NOTICE OF AMENDMENT

 

TO: All Concerned Persons

                                                                                                                    

1. On February 28, 2020, the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (department) published MAR Notice No. 12-527 pertaining to the public hearing on the proposed amendment of the above-stated rule at page 352 of the 2020 Montana Administrative Register, Issue Number 4.

 

2. The department has amended the above-stated rule as proposed.

 

3. The department has thoroughly considered the comments and testimony received. A summary of the comments received and the department's responses are as follows:

 

COMMENT #1: The department received comments in favor of the rule proposal.

 

RESPONSE #1: The department appreciates the participation and support in the rulemaking process.

 

COMMENT #2: The department received several comments opposed to the switch from the thermal paper to regular paper.

RESPONSE #2: These comments are outside the scope of this rulemaking process.  The department adopted the proposed rule amendments to make it more convenient for customers by removing the limit of reprints allowed and the requirement for customers to sign an affidavit to receive a replacement license or permit. The decision to switch from the thermal paper to regular paper was made separately from and prior to this rulemaking process. The decision to switch was made for several reasons. Most customers will enjoy the convenience of purchasing their licenses and permits online and the ability to print them at home for immediate availability.  The cost of the thermal paper continues to increase, and the equipment used to print on the thermal paper is aging and unable to be replaced. Therefore, the department chose to change to printing licenses and permits on regular paper.

 

 

/s/ Aimee Hawkaluk                                     /s/ Martha Williams

Aimee Hawkaluk                                          Martha Williams

Rule Reviewer                                              Director

                                                                     Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks

                       

Certified to the Secretary of State May 5, 2020.