This bill amends Montana's privacy laws to criminalize the possession and threat of disclosure of sexually explicit images, including both real photographs and digitally fabricated content created using artificial intelligence. It directly affects individuals who possess or threaten to share intimate images of identifiable people without consent, as well as platforms and users involved in distributing such material. The law defines "digitally fabricated" as media that realistically misrepresents an individual as engaging in conduct they did not actually participate in, and establishes specific penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges for first offenses to felony convictions for repeat violations. The legislation includes exceptions for law enforcement activities, public interest reporting, and certain artistic or educational uses, while also clarifying that internet service providers are not liable for content created by others.
This bill requires all adults aged 21 and older to obtain a marijuana identification card before purchasing recreational marijuana or related products in Montana. To get the card, applicants must pay a $200 fee, provide proof of residency, and submit their personal information, with the card valid for one year and including a photo and unique identification number. The bill establishes a registry system where the state department must process applications within 30 days and maintain confidential records accessible only to authorized government agencies and law enforcement. It also requires cardholders to carry their identification card at all times and display it along with a valid photo ID when requested by law enforcement or judicial officials.
This bill revises Montana's criminal laws by adding a new offense for operating unauthorized drones near correctional facilities and clarifying penalties for assaults involving bodily fluids. It also updates laws regarding the possession and transfer of illegal items like cellphones and drugs to incarcerated individuals, as well as unauthorized communications with detained persons. The legislation defines key terms such as "bodily fluid" and "emergency responder" to ensure consistent application of these rules across law enforcement and healthcare settings.
This bill proposes to add a new type of driving under the influence offense in Montana for drivers who have certain prohibited substances other than alcohol or marijuana in their blood or body. It would amend existing criminal laws to allow prosecutors to charge drivers with DUI even when the substance detected is not alcohol or marijuana, provided it meets specific concentration thresholds. The legislation also updates related sections of the Montana Code Annotated to clarify how evidence of drug presence is used in DUI cases and defines what counts as being under the influence. Additionally, the bill modifies rules around driver rehabilitation programs, allowing some individuals with suspended or revoked licenses to participate in these programs and potentially receive restricted probationary licenses if they complete the required training.
This bill amends Montana's assault laws to classify the non-consensual administration of specific drugs as assault. It directly affects individuals who provide substances like rohypnol, flunitrazepam, gamma-hydroxybutyrate, alcohol, or diphenhydramine to others without their consent. The law includes exceptions for medical providers treating patients, parents administering medication to minor children, guardians of incapacitated adults, and the use of opioid overdose reversal medications. A person convicted of this offense faces a fine of up to $500, imprisonment in county jail for up to six months, or both penalties.
HB 493 establishes a new criminal offense for the purposeful and knowing possession, receipt, concealment, storage, sale, or disposal of a stolen firearm or stolen ammunition. Individuals convicted of possessing a stolen firearm may face imprisonment in state prison for up to 10 years. The bill also amends existing law to allow youths aged 16 or older accused of this new offense to be tried in adult court. Additionally, it includes possession of a stolen firearm or ammunition in the definition of offenses that can constitute a "pattern of criminal street gang activity."
SB 537 revises Montana's marijuana tax revenue distribution, directing funds from the marijuana state special revenue account to new and existing state accounts. It requires transferring excess funds annually to specific accounts, including 12% to the HEART account for addiction treatment and mental health programs, 20% to wildlife habitat projects, and 14% to behavioral health initiatives. The bill also allocates funds for law enforcement canine training, sexual assault evidence kits, and homeless shelter support, while modifying existing transfer rules for agencies like the Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. These changes apply to all state agencies receiving marijuana tax revenue under Montana law.
HB 344 establishes a new type of driving under the influence (DUI) offense. This offense applies to both noncommercial and commercial drivers found to have a specified amount of prohibited substances, other than alcohol or marijuana, in their blood or other bodily fluids while operating a vehicle. The bill amends existing laws regarding drug concentration standards, driver rehabilitation program eligibility, and penalties for driving with a suspended or revoked license to incorporate this new offense.
SB 132 revises laws for individuals under 21 years of age who possess or unlawfully attempt to purchase alcohol, marijuana, or other intoxicating substances. The bill creates separate crimes for these actions and establishes a tiered penalty system based on the offender's age and the number of prior offenses. Penalties include fines, community service, and mandatory participation in substance abuse information courses, with parents or guardians also required to complete courses for offenders under 18. Repeat offenders may face driver's license confiscation or suspension, chemical dependency assessments, and potential jail time for those 18 and older.
SB 261 revises the existing law concerning endangering the welfare of children. It expands the definition of this offense to include knowingly exposing a child to marijuana or dangerous drugs. The bill also makes it an offense to assist a child in entering an adult-use dispensary or a place where human trafficking or the production of dangerous drugs is taking place. Additionally, it updates sections related to drug manufacturing and exposure in the presence of children to apply to a broader range of dangerous drugs instead of specifically methamphetamine.
