This bill aims to eliminate various financial obligations associated with youth court, specifically targeting fees, costs, certain fines, and other financial responsibilities that may burden young individuals involved in the justice system. It proposes amendments to multiple sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), including sections 40-4-204, 40-5-303, and 41-5-103, among others, to reflect these changes. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for new reporting requirements to the Criminal Justice Oversight Council, ensuring that the impacts of these changes are monitored and assessed.

Furthermore, the bill seeks to repeal sections 41-5-112 and 41-5-1525 of the MCA, which may contain outdated or redundant provisions related to youth court financial obligations. By removing these sections and implementing the proposed amendments, the legislation aims to create a more equitable and supportive environment for youth navigating the legal system, reducing the financial barriers that can hinder their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Statutes affected:
HB0500_1.pdf: 40-4-204, 40-5-303, 40-5-601, 40-5-701, 41-5-103, 41-5-132, 41-5-1304, 41-5-1412, 41-5-1501, 41-5-1503, 41-5-1511, 41-5-1512, 41-5-1513, 41-5-1703
HB0500_2.pdf: 40-4-204, 40-5-303, 40-5-601, 40-5-701, 41-5-103, 41-5-132, 41-5-1304, 41-5-1412, 41-5-1501, 41-5-1503, 41-5-1511, 41-5-1512, 41-5-1513, 41-5-1703
Amended: 40-4-204, 40-5-303, 40-5-601, 40-5-701, 41-5-103, 41-5-132, 41-5-1304, 41-5-1412, 41-5-1501, 41-5-1503, 41-5-1511, 41-5-1512, 41-5-1513, 41-5-1703
Introduced: 40-4-204, 40-5-303, 40-5-601, 40-5-701, 41-5-103, 41-5-132, 41-5-1304, 41-5-1412, 41-5-1501, 41-5-1503, 41-5-1511, 41-5-1512, 41-5-1513, 41-5-1703