Bill > HB208

This bill amends Montana state law to expand the powers of municipalities by explicitly allowing them to regulate unauthorized occupancy of municipal property. Specifically, the bill adds two new provisions to Section 7-1-4124, which outlines the powers of municipalities with general powers: (1) municipalities can now prohibit or regulate the temporary or permanent storage of personal property on municipal real property, and (2) they can prohibit or regulate sleeping, camping, or otherwise inhabiting municipal real property. This means that local governments will have clearer legal authority to address issues related to unauthorized encampments or storage of belongings on public lands. The new language gives municipalities more flexibility in managing public spaces and addressing potential public safety or nuisance concerns related to unauthorized use of municipal property. The bill provides local governments with additional tools to control and manage their public spaces, potentially allowing them to take action against unauthorized camping or storage that might interfere with public use or create safety issues.

Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2028