This bill establishes penalties for individuals who falsely report child abuse or neglect. It amends existing legal provisions in Sections 41-3-203, 41-3-207, and 45-7-203 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to incorporate these new penalties, thereby enhancing the legal framework surrounding the reporting of child abuse and neglect cases.

The bill aims to deter false reporting by imposing consequences on those who make unfounded allegations, thereby protecting the integrity of the child welfare system. Additionally, it includes an immediate effective date, ensuring that the new provisions are enacted without delay.

Statutes affected:
SB0149_1.pdf: 41-3-203
SB0149_2.pdf: 41-3-203
SB0149_3.pdf: 41-3-203
Amended: 41-3-203, 41-3-207, 45-7-203
Introduced: 41-3-203