House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws related to driving under the influence (DUI) in Montana by adding new provisions that classify driving while under the influence of alcohol and certain controlled substances as an offense. The bill amends Sections 61-8-1002 and 61-8-1007 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). Notably, it introduces penalties for individuals found guilty of driving under the influence of both alcohol and controlled substances, excluding marijuana that is not prescribed to the individual. The bill also specifies that a person can be charged with a felony for violations involving controlled substances, with increased penalties for repeat offenders.

The amendments to Section 61-8-1002 include a new definition of driving under the influence that encompasses the influence of alcohol and controlled substances, while also adjusting the thresholds for tetrahydrocannabinol levels. Additionally, Section 61-8-1007 outlines the penalties for DUI offenses, including mandatory minimum imprisonment terms and fines that vary based on the number of prior offenses. The bill emphasizes the importance of compliance with chemical dependency treatment programs and establishes stricter consequences for repeat offenders, including longer imprisonment terms and higher fines. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance public safety by imposing stricter regulations and penalties for DUI offenses in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1(1): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1(2): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1(3): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1(4): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1(5): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_1: 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(1): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(2): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(3): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(4): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(5): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(6): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(7): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2(8): 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007
HB0541_2: 61-8-1002, 61-8-1007