The Montana state senate gave the initial thumbs up to state lawmakers Wednesday on a bill that would allow permitted residents to salvage and process roadkill for human consumption. The bill received a 33-15 vote in its favor, and is in its final stages before it is passed. Supporters say that it “makes no sense to let the carcasses of big-game go to waste on Montana’s roadways”.
Sen. Larry Jent, D-Bozeman adds, “It really is a sin to waste a good meat.” However, those opposing the bill think that consuming roadkill could raise liability issues.
“Despite its good intention, it doesn’t pass the smell test for me,” said Sen. Kendall Van Dyk, D-Billings.
The bill would allow permits to be issued to individuals to remove dead deer, elk, moose, and other approved roadkill from the state’s roadways to send to food banks. Initially, furred and migratory game was added to the list as well, but then rejected.
Illinois has also jumped on the bandwagon in considering the use of roadkill for consumption.
Krysta Loera is a writer and researcher with Ring of Fire.