This bill introduces new offenses related to squatting, specifically defining "unlawful squatting" and "fraudulent sale or lease of property." Unlawful squatting occurs when a person knowingly occupies a property without the owner's consent, and those convicted face misdemeanor charges along with restitution for fair market rent during their occupancy. Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for individuals who falsely present documents to gain access to a property and for those who damage property while squatting. Law enforcement is granted the authority to remove individuals committing unlawful squatting immediately from the premises.

The bill also amends Section 70-24-113 of the Montana Code Annotated, enhancing the process for removing unauthorized persons or trespassers from properties. It allows property owners or authorized agents to request law enforcement assistance for removal and to stand by during lock changes. Importantly, the bill includes provisions for indemnifying law enforcement against damages if they act in good faith based on false information provided by property owners. New legal language is inserted to clarify these processes and responsibilities, ensuring that law enforcement is protected while addressing issues of unauthorized occupancy.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 70-24-113
SB0101_1(1): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(10): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(11): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(12): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(13): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(2): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(3): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(4): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(5): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(6): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(7): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(8): 70-24-113
SB0101_1(9): 70-24-113
SB0101_1: 70-24-113
SB0101_2(1): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(2): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(3): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(4): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(5): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(6): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(7): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(8): 70-24-113
SB0101_2(9): 70-24-113
SB0101_2: 70-24-113
SB0101_X: 70-24-113