Roadkill salvage bill on track to Bullock

HELENA — A proposal to allow people to salvage roadkill for food is in the fast lane to the Montana governor's office after the state Senate gave its initial backing.

The measure calls for law-enforcement officers to issue permits to remove the carcasses of elk, deer, antelope and moose off the state's roadways.

An earlier version would have allowed fur-bearing animals, upland game birds and migratory game birds to be scraped up, too.

Supporters say the measure would stop good game meat from going to waste.

Opponents question whether the meat would be safe and say the measure would create liability issues for food banks that accept it.

The state Senate approved the bill Wednesday in a 33-15 vote. It must pass a final vote before it goes to Gov. Steve Bullock.