Revise DUI offense penalties for third offense to be a felony

This bill proposes to increase penalties for a third driving under the influence offense in Montana by classifying it as a felony rather than a misdemeanor. The changes directly affect individuals convicted of their third DUI offense, raising the minimum jail time from 30 days to 60 days if a minor passenger was present, and increasing fines from $2,500 to $5,000 minimum. The legislation also maintains existing provisions that allow judges to suspend portions of sentences pending completion of chemical dependency treatment programs while prohibiting home arrest for mandatory minimum terms. Additionally, the bill preserves stricter penalties for cases involving prior felony DUI convictions or aggravated driving under the influence charges.