The bill amends Section 2-18-502 of the Montana Code Annotated to revise the computation of meal allowances for employees working night-shift hours. It introduces specific time frames for meal allowances based on whether the employee is working non-night-shift or night-shift hours. For non-night-shift hours, the morning meal allowance is available from 12:01 a.m. to 10 a.m., the midday meal from 10:01 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the evening meal from 3:01 p.m. to 12 midnight. For night-shift hours, the evening meal allowance is now defined as being available from 12:01 p.m. to 10 p.m., the midnight meal from 10:01 p.m. to 3 a.m., and the early morning meal from 3:01 a.m. to 12 noon.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that an eligible employee can receive only one meal allowance if travel occurs within their assigned travel shift, or a maximum of two allowances if travel begins before or ends after their shift, provided it does not exceed 24 hours. The definition of "travel shift" is also included, specifying it as the period starting one hour before and ending one hour after the employee's normal work shift. The bill maintains provisions for appointed members of state boards and committees regarding midday meal allowances during meetings, with specific exclusions for legislative committee members during sessions.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-18-502