The proposed bill aims to amend the definition and penalties associated with indecent exposure in Montana. It specifies that exposing a person's intimate parts in a public place to members of the opposite sex, or the opposite sex assigned at birth, constitutes indecent exposure. The bill introduces new legal language that defines "public place" and outlines the circumstances under which indecent exposure occurs, particularly emphasizing the need for the offender to knowingly or purposely expose their genitals or intimate parts. Additionally, it includes provisions for increased penalties for repeat offenders, with fines and imprisonment terms escalating with each subsequent conviction.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to incorporate these changes, including the addition of language that addresses the exposure of intimate parts to minors and the conditions under which such exposure is considered a crime. It also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 45-5-504, 46-23-502
HB0446_1: 45-5-504, 46-23-502