The proposed bill seeks to amend various sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to prohibit the marriage of individuals under 18 years of age, thereby enhancing protections for minors. Key changes include the removal of provisions that previously allowed individuals aged 16 or 17 to marry with judicial approval, now stipulating that individuals must be at least 18 to obtain a marriage license. The bill also introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding dependents, particularly expanding the definition of "dependent child" to include unmarried children under 24 attending accredited postsecondary institutions. Additionally, it repeals certain sections related to marriage laws and updates legal language to ensure clarity in the definitions of dependents and their eligibility for various benefits.

Furthermore, the bill addresses child support and custody by updating definitions and processes related to support orders, removing the term "married" from the definition of a "child," and clarifying the rights of caretaker relatives. It emphasizes the equal rights of both parents regarding their child's parenting and services while allowing for exceptions in specific circumstances. The bill also modernizes the legal framework surrounding guardianship and conservatorship, specifying the responsibilities and powers of guardians and conservators, and streamlining the initiation of juvenile proceedings. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the legal protections for minors and improve the clarity and consistency of laws related to marriage, child welfare, and guardianship in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 1-1-215, 15-61-102, 19-6-101, 19-9-104, 19-13-104, 19-17-102, 19-19-503, 20-5-501, 27-1-718, 28-2-706, 39-71-116, 40-1-202, 40-1-203, 40-1-401, 40-1-402, 40-5-201, 40-5-278, 40-5-701, 40-6-221, 40-6-234, 40-6-501, 41-1-401, 41-1-402, 41-1-404, 41-3-102, 41-3-1303, 41-5-103, 41-5-1402, 42-2-201, 50-20-503, 70-1-404, 72-5-103, 72-5-104, 72-5-211, 72-5-222, 72-5-231, 72-5-233, 72-5-427, 87-2-102