tjones, IF? Were it not true I would not have said it, IF you are not questioning my integrity let me know, otherwise I am apt to take it that way.
On to your question.
Having a license stabilizes the industry as a whole. I don't need it as this current system is working(not perfectly) and really have contemplated whether I want it. IF(big IF)we get this license there will be rules that go along with it, after passage of 161 the rules went out the window(unintended consequence I warned of). I worry that IF this license bill goes thru there will be "unintended consequences" that I have not foreseen that will hinder my business and put rules/regulation on it(I struggle with rules/regulation/authority, it's a personality flaw). This is a reason I find to not support the bill.
A reason I can support this bill is my for repeat clients. I have clients who have hunted with me over 20 years, these guys regularly passed up "next year deer" and let them grow up hoping to be able to have a chance the following year at them. Now they can only come every other year(current system)and they are not near as apt to let a "next year buck" go. On account they probably won't be able to come hunt the following year. I realize this is selfish on my part, but I look at it as being better for the resource. You and others may hate this, but this is the view thru my spotting scope.
greenhorn, Were I not in the business I would take a step back and look at the economics. You may not like what it all boils down to. Who is better for Montana's economy the DIY guy who spends $1200-2500, or the guided guy spending $6500 or more? Both are "taking" the same thing from "our Montana", the latter just leave a lot more.