Bill > HB388

This bill creates legal protections for pregnancy centers in Montana, preventing state and local governments from forcing these centers to provide or refer for abortion services, contraception, or abortion-inducing drugs, or to counsel in favor of these options. The bill defines pregnancy centers as private, nonprofit organizations that promote childbirth and provide resources, counseling, and support for women, children, and families facing unexpected pregnancies. It explicitly prohibits government entities from requiring pregnancy centers to perform, refer, or discuss abortion services, or from preventing these centers from providing free services like pregnancy tests, counseling, medical testing, and resources such as baby clothing and parenting classes. If a government entity attempts to interfere with a pregnancy center's operations or hiring practices, the center can file a civil lawsuit and potentially receive up to $50,000 in damages, with the possibility of treble damages if malice is proven. The bill was introduced in response to increased legal challenges to pregnancy centers following the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, and aims to protect these centers' freedom of speech and their ability to operate according to their pro-life mission without government interference.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2052