The bill amends Section 46-5-401 of the Montana Code Annotated to authorize peace officers to check and report the immigration status of individuals during lawful stops. Specifically, it allows a peace officer who has lawfully stopped a person or vehicle to make a reasonable attempt to determine the immigration status of the individual, provided that such determination does not hinder or obstruct an ongoing investigation. If the officer finds that the person is not lawfully present in the United States, they are required to report this information to a federal immigration agency.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions regarding the authority of peace officers during investigative stops, including the ability to request identification and conduct frisks for safety. The new language emphasizes the requirement for officers to report immigration status while ensuring that their actions do not interfere with other law enforcement activities. This amendment reflects a shift in the responsibilities of peace officers during traffic stops and other encounters with the public.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 46-5-401
HB0278_1(1): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(2): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(3): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(4): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(5): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(6): 46-5-401
HB0278_1(7): 46-5-401
HB0278_1: 46-5-401
HB0278_2(1): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(10): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(2): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(3): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(4): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(5): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(6): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(7): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(8): 46-5-401
HB0278_2(9): 46-5-401
HB0278_2: 46-5-401
HB0278_X(1): 46-5-401
HB0278_X(2): 46-5-401
HB0278_X(3): 46-5-401
HB0278_X(4): 46-5-401
HB0278_X(5): 46-5-401
HB0278_X: 46-5-401