Bill > HB816

This bill updates Montana's laws related to driving under the influence (DUI) by modifying penalties and sentencing options. Specifically, the bill makes several key changes to how misdemeanor sentences can be served and increases the penalties for DUI offenses. For misdemeanors, the bill now allows sentences to be served consecutively or on weekends from 5 p.m. Friday until 5 p.m. Sunday, providing credit for 2 days, and permits sentences of more than 104 days to be served across multiple calendar years if necessary. For DUI offenses, the bill significantly increases both imprisonment terms and financial penalties across first, second, and third offense categories, with additional penalties if minors under 16 were in the vehicle at the time of the offense. The changes include longer mandatory minimum sentences, higher fines (for example, increasing first-offense fines from $600-$1,000 to potentially $2,000-$3,000), and more stringent conditions for suspended sentences. The bill aims to create more robust consequences for repeat DUI offenders and enhance public safety by implementing stricter legal penalties for driving under the influence.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0857