Bill > SB425

This bill amends Montana law to prohibit the Department of Corrections from incarcerating an inmate out of state if the inmate has a child under 13 years old who resides in Montana, with two notable exceptions: if the inmate's parental rights have been terminated or if the inmate was convicted of a sexual offense. The bill modifies existing legislation that currently allows the department to place inmates in out-of-state detention centers when correctional facilities are at or above emergency capacity. The change aims to keep parents with young children closer to home, potentially minimizing disruption to family connections. The law previously allowed the department to contract with federal, state, or county facilities for inmate confinement when correctional institutions are overcrowded or lack appropriate facilities for certain inmates. By adding the new provision about parental status, the bill introduces a humanitarian consideration in the placement of incarcerated individuals, prioritizing the potential impact on young children's family relationships.

Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1938