Oregon Man Challenges Yellowstone National Park Rules as Unconstitutional Overreach

An Oregon man faces up to 18 months in prison over Yellowstone fishing and road violations.

Tate Pulliam is challenging Yellowstone National Park’s enforcement rules as unconstitutional government overreach, arguing that the park superintendent’s appointment and rulemaking exceed Congress’s authority and violate constitutional procedures. This dispute raises fundamental questions about the limits of executive power within federal land management.

Pulliam was cited last December for fishing in a closed river, fishing without a permit, and driving on a restricted road. His motion to dismiss these citations contends that the superintendent’s rule enforcement improperly criminalizes conduct without legislative backing, a claim supported by references to constitutional principles on separation of powers and appointments. The U.S. Attorney’s office in Wyoming is preparing a response ahead of a hearing scheduled for May 12 at the Yellowstone Justice Center. This case follows a related 2025 bench trial involving trail runner Michelino Sunseri, who challenged similar issues but lost before receiving a presidential pardon last November.

While Montana is not directly involved, this case could resonate with businesses and land users in the region, where federal management and local economic interests often intersect. The outcome might influence how constitutional challenges to federal land regulations are approached in nearby states with significant public lands, including Montana.

Oregon Man Challenges Yellowstone’s Rules As Unconstitutional Overreach

By @daily_cowboy, Cowboy State Daily