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, allowing property owners or authorized agents to request law enforcement assistance in removing unauthorized persons or trespassers. It includes provisions for indemnifying law enforcement for good faith actions taken based on requests made by property owners, particularly if false information is provided. The amendments clarify the process for removal and establish a civil cause of action for wrongful removal, ensuring that property owners have a clear legal framework to address 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(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