Bill > SB364

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations regarding "kill switches" on personally owned property, primarily focusing on electronic devices and motor vehicles. The legislation requires that entities (manufacturers or service providers) cannot remotely activate a kill switch (a mechanism that can shut down, reset, drain battery, or reduce software functionality) without first obtaining a court-issued warrant. However, the bill provides several important exceptions, including situations involving unpaid subscriptions, rental or lease agreements, and specific safety-related scenarios in motor vehicles, such as addressing critical safety issues, responding to driver medical emergencies, or managing automated driving systems. The bill defines key terms like "kill switch" and "personally owned property" and establishes legal protections for individuals. If an entity activates a kill switch without proper authorization, the individual can pursue legal action and is entitled to $10,000 in statutory damages per violation. The bill also allows kill switches to be activated on stolen property with the owner's consent. The legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and will be codified under Montana's consumer protection laws, providing a framework to protect consumers from unauthorized remote deactivation of their personal property.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0736