House Bill No. introduced by K. Zolnikov mandates that the Department of Labor and Industry or local building departments must provide the specific text or citation of the building code sections that justify any delays in permit applications or stoppages of construction projects. If a permit applicant or project constructor requests this information, the department must respond within 7 business days. If they fail to do so, the relevant sections of the building code will not apply to the permit or project in question.
Additionally, the bill allows individuals who are adversely affected by such failures to file a civil action in district court for relief, which may include compensatory damages for delays or stoppages. Prevailing plaintiffs are entitled to recover reasonable court costs and attorney fees. The bill also includes a codification instruction indicating that the new provisions will be integrated into Title 50, chapter 60, part 1 of the Montana Code.