Bill > HB316

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Montana's Article II, Section 17 that would expand the definition of "person" to include all human beings from the moment of fertilization or conception, regardless of age, health, functioning level, or dependency. The amendment would add provisions specifying that no person can be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, and it includes a specific clause preventing any legal cause of action arising from unintentional harm caused to an unborn child by its mother. The proposed amendment requires a two-thirds vote of the legislature for passage and would be submitted to Montana voters in the November 2026 general election. If approved by voters, the amendment would take effect immediately, and it includes a severability clause ensuring that if any part of the amendment is found invalid, the remaining valid parts would still be enforceable. The broader implications of this amendment could potentially impact legal interpretations of personhood, reproductive rights, and related legal protections for embryos and fetuses.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0891