Bill > HB289

This bill amends Montana's existing law on endangering the welfare of children by expanding the definition of the crime to explicitly include exposing a child to the production or manufacture of fentanyl, heroin, or cocaine, and allowing a child to be exposed to these drugs. Specifically, the bill modifies section 45-5-622 of Montana Code Annotated to add fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine to the list of substances that, when produced, manufactured, or exposed to in a child's presence, constitute a criminal offense. Under the updated law, anyone who produces or manufactures these drugs in a location where a child might reasonably be present, or who causes or permits a child to be exposed to or have contact with these drugs, can be charged with endangering the welfare of children. The penalty for such an offense remains a felony, with potential imprisonment of up to 5 years and a fine of up to $10,000, with enhanced penalties if a child suffers serious bodily injury. The bill aims to provide clearer legal protection for children by specifically naming these dangerous drugs in the existing child welfare statute.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2432