Bill > LC2240

This bill revises Montana's criminal child abuse laws, primarily focusing on criminal child endangerment and driving under the influence offenses. The bill expands the definition of criminal child endangerment to include additional scenarios that put children at risk, such as placing a child in the custody of someone who has previously caused bodily injury to a child or committed certain offenses. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision specifically addressing child protection specialists, making them criminally liable if they purposely, knowingly, or negligently place a child in a potentially dangerous situation. The bill also requires that any investigation involving allegations against a child protection specialist be immediately referred to the Department of Justice. Additionally, the bill makes technical amendments to driving under the influence laws, updating cross-references and ensuring that certain prior offenses can be counted when determining subsequent driving under the influence convictions. The penalties for criminal child endangerment remain substantial, with potential fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years. The changes aim to strengthen protections for children and clarify legal standards for child safety and professional conduct in child-related services.

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/lc/bill/2/LC2240