This bill amends Section 40-6-701 of the Montana Code Annotated to clarify the circumstances under which a government entity may make audio or video recordings of a child without obtaining parental consent. The bill establishes that such recordings can be made during events that are open to the public, which includes public performances, athletic competitions, and related practices or rehearsals. This addition aims to balance the rights of parents with the operational needs of government entities in public settings.

Additionally, the bill reinforces the fundamental rights of parents to direct their children's upbringing, education, and health care, while also specifying that government entities must demonstrate a compelling interest if they wish to interfere with these rights. The language also removes the previous stipulation regarding surveillance of buildings and grounds, thereby streamlining the conditions under which recordings can occur. Overall, the bill seeks to protect parental rights while allowing for necessary recordings in public contexts.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 40-6-701
HB0032_1(1): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(2): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(3): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(4): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(5): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(6): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(7): 40-6-701
HB0032_1(8): 40-6-701
HB0032_1: 40-6-701
HB0032_2(1): 40-6-701
HB0032_2(2): 40-6-701
HB0032_2(3): 40-6-701
HB0032_2(4): 40-6-701
HB0032_2(5): 40-6-701
HB0032_2(6): 40-6-701
HB0032_2: 40-6-701
HB0032_X(1): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(2): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(3): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(4): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(5): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(6): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(7): 40-6-701
HB0032_X(8): 40-6-701
HB0032_X: 40-6-701