House Bill No. introduced by A. Regier proposes the use of temporary door locks in public buildings during shelter-in-place or emergency lockdown situations, providing a limited exception to existing fire code regulations. The bill defines a "temporary door locking device" and outlines specific criteria for its use, including that it must be approved by local fire or law enforcement authorities, not permanently modify the door hardware, and comply with fire safety standards. The device is intended for temporary emergency use and must be integrated into building safety plans and training programs.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 50-61-106 of the Montana Code Annotated to clarify that, except for the provisions outlined in the new section regarding temporary door locks, it remains unlawful to obstruct fire exits or related pathways. The bill includes provisions for codification and establishes an immediate effective date upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 50-61-106
HB0651_1(1): 50-61-106
HB0651_1(2): 50-61-106
HB0651_1(3): 50-61-106
HB0651_1: 50-61-106