Bill > SB261

This bill amends Montana's existing law on endangering the welfare of children by expanding the definition of actions that constitute an offense. The bill introduces new provisions that make it illegal for a parent, guardian, or other person to knowingly contribute to a child's delinquency by causing or permitting a child to be exposed to marijuana or THC products, assisting a child in entering an adult-use marijuana dispensary, or helping a child enter a location involved in human trafficking or dangerous drug production. The legislation also broadens the existing law regarding drug-related offenses, replacing specific references to methamphetamine with a more comprehensive definition that covers dangerous drugs listed in Schedules I through V. The bill maintains existing penalties, which range from fines up to $500 and/or up to 6 months in county jail for first-time offenses, with more severe penalties for repeated offenses or cases involving serious bodily injury. An important nuance is that the law explicitly excludes incidental secondhand marijuana smoke from being considered a violation. The bill aims to provide clearer legal guidance on protecting children from potentially harmful environments and substances while allowing for reasonable parental discretion in child-rearing.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2975