This bill amends Section 45-8-213 of the Montana Code Annotated to expand the definition of offenses related to violating privacy in communications. It introduces new provisions that criminalize the act of obtaining money or valuables from a person through electronic communication, as well as the possession and threat to disclose real or digitally fabricated media without consent. The bill defines "digitally fabricated" as media that misrepresents an identifiable individual using technical means, such as artificial intelligence.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations, categorizing them as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the nature and frequency of the offense. For instance, a first offense under the new provisions is classified as a misdemeanor, while subsequent offenses can lead to felony charges with harsher penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The bill also clarifies that certain exceptions apply, such as disclosures made in the public interest or by public officials in the course of their duties.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 45-8-213
HB0514_1(1): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(2): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(3): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(4): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(5): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(6): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(7): 45-8-213
HB0514_1(8): 45-8-213
HB0514_1: 45-8-213
HB0514_X(1): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(2): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(3): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(4): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(5): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(6): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(7): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(8): 45-8-213
HB0514_X(9): 45-8-213
HB0514_X: 45-8-213