Mont. Code Ann. § 16-1-103

16-1-103 . Policy as to retail sale of liquor. It is the policy of the state that it is necessary to further regulate and control the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages within the state and to ensure that the department has complete regulatory control of the sale of liquor in this state. It is advisable and necessary, in addition to the operation of the agency liquor stores now provided by law, that the department be empowered and authorized to grant licenses to persons qualified under this code to sell liquor purchased by them at agency liquor stores at retail posted price in accordance with this code and under rules promulgated by the department and under its strict supervision and control and to provide severe penalty for the sale of liquor except by and in agency liquor stores and by persons licensed under this code. The restrictions, regulations, and provisions contained in this code are enacted by the legislature for the protection, health, welfare, and safety of the people of the state.