This bill amends Section 45-5-622 of the Montana Code Annotated to expand the definition of the offense of endangering the welfare of children. It establishes that a person commits this offense if they knowingly expose a child to marijuana or dangerous drugs, assist a child in entering an adult-use dispensary, or facilitate a child's involvement in human trafficking or the production of dangerous drugs. The bill also clarifies that a parent or guardian does not violate their duty of care by allowing a child to engage in independent activities appropriate for their maturity.

Additionally, the bill modifies the penalties associated with endangering the welfare of children, particularly for those convicted under the new provisions. It specifies that a person who causes or permits a child to inhale, be exposed to, or ingest marijuana is committing an offense, with the exception of incidental exposure to secondhand smoke from lawful adult use. The bill also updates the language regarding dangerous drugs, replacing specific references to methamphetamine with a broader classification of dangerous drugs listed in Schedules I through V.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 45-5-622
SB0261_1(1): 45-5-622
SB0261_1(2): 45-5-622
SB0261_1(3): 45-5-622
SB0261_1(4): 45-5-622
SB0261_1(5): 45-5-622
SB0261_1: 45-5-622
SB0261_2(1): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(2): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(3): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(4): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(5): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(6): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(7): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(8): 45-5-622
SB0261_2(9): 45-5-622
SB0261_2: 45-5-622
SB0261_3: 45-5-622
SB0261_X(1): 45-5-622
SB0261_X(2): 45-5-622
SB0261_X(3): 45-5-622
SB0261_X(4): 45-5-622
SB0261_X(5): 45-5-622
SB0261_X: 45-5-622