The bill aims to revise existing laws regarding bail bonds by creating a new category of licensing known as the "surety bail bond insurance license." It establishes specific application and training requirements for individuals seeking this license, including age, citizenship, educational qualifications, and completion of a 40-hour training course covering various legal and operational aspects of bail enforcement. The bill also outlines the conditions under which an individual may be disqualified from obtaining or renewing this license, particularly concerning felony convictions and offenses involving dishonesty or violence.

Additionally, the bill grants arrest authority to licensed surety bail bond insurance producers under certain conditions, requiring them to notify local law enforcement prior to apprehending a principal. It amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated to incorporate these changes, including provisions for the reporting of arrests and surrenders. The effective date for the majority of the bill is set for January 1, 2024, while certain sections will take effect upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
SB0172_2.pdf: 33-17-212, 33-26-108, 46-9-401, 46-9-510
Amended: 33-17-212, 33-26-108, 46-9-401, 46-9-510