Bill > SB164

This bill revises the existing Montana law on endangering the welfare of children by adding a new provision that specifically prohibits certain medical treatments for children under 16 years old. The new section makes it a criminal offense to procure or provide surgical procedures, puberty blockers, or hormone treatments to children under 16 when these treatments are intended to alter the child's appearance or affirm a gender identity that differs from their biological sex. The bill classifies this as a felony offense, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, with potentially more severe penalties if the child suffers serious bodily injury. The law maintains existing provisions about child welfare, such as defining acceptable independent activities for children and prohibitions on contributing to child delinquency, while adding this new restriction on medical interventions for minors. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving time for implementation and awareness. The new provision specifically targets medical treatments related to gender identity, creating a criminal penalty for providers or parents who facilitate such interventions for children under 16.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0608