Bill > SB300

This bill provides comprehensive legal protections for service animals and their handlers in Montana by creating new criminal offenses and modifying existing laws. The bill establishes two primary criminal offenses: harassment or harm of a service animal (which includes continuing behavior that interferes with a service animal's work after being warned, negligently causing harm to a service animal, or allowing another animal to interfere with a service animal) and unauthorized control of a service animal (purposely obtaining or exerting control over a service animal with intent to deprive the handler). Individuals convicted of these offenses can be fined up to $1,000 and must pay full restitution, which may include the value of an incapacitated or deceased service animal, replacement and retraining costs, veterinary expenses, and compensation for the handler's lost wages or medical expenses. The bill also amends existing statutes to include service animals in definitions of vicious dog control, liability for dog bites, and access rights, thereby expanding legal protections for service animals in various contexts. Importantly, the bill defines key terms like "service animal" by referencing existing state law and provides clear guidelines for how service animals and their handlers should be treated in public spaces and housing accommodations.

Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3366