The bill revises laws concerning fleeing from or eluding a peace officer in Montana, specifically amending Section 61-8-316 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). It establishes clear classifications for misdemeanor and felony offenses related to this behavior. A person convicted of fleeing from a peace officer is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $2,000. However, if the offense is classified as aggravated fleeing, the individual faces felony charges with penalties of up to five years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. Additionally, if the fleeing results in serious bodily injury or death to another person, the penalties increase to a maximum of ten years in prison or a fine of up to $10,000.

The bill introduces new legal language that specifies the conditions under which a person commits aggravated fleeing, including prior convictions, reckless driving, causing significant property damage, or leaving the state. It also clarifies the penalties for violations of this section, ensuring they align with the newly established classifications. The reorganization of these provisions aims to create consistency within Title 61, Chapter 8 of the MCA, enhancing the clarity and enforcement of laws related to fleeing from or eluding law enforcement.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 61-8-316
HB0503_1(1): 61-8-316
HB0503_1(2): 61-8-316
HB0503_1(3): 61-8-316
HB0503_1(4): 61-8-316
HB0503_1(5): 61-8-316
HB0503_1(6): 61-8-316
HB0503_1: 61-8-316
HB0503_X(1): 61-8-316
HB0503_X(2): 61-8-316
HB0503_X(3): 61-8-316
HB0503_X(4): 61-8-316
HB0503_X(5): 61-8-316
HB0503_X: 61-8-316