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 claim authorization to occupy a property or who damage the property while squatting. Law enforcement is granted the authority to remove individuals committing unlawful squatting immediately, with indemnity provisions for their actions.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 70-24-113 of the Montana Code Annotated to clarify the process for removing unauthorized persons or trespassers from a property. It allows property owners or authorized agents to request law enforcement assistance for removal and to stand by during lock changes. The bill also includes provisions for indemnifying law enforcement if false information is provided during these requests. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen property rights and provide clear legal recourse against unlawful occupancy and fraudulent property transactions.

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(1): 70-24-113
SB0101_X(2): 70-24-113
SB0101_X(3): 70-24-113
SB0101_X(4): 70-24-113
SB0101_X(5): 70-24-113
SB0101_X: 70-24-113