LC 481 Legislature · 2025 Regular Session

Provide for case determinations of investigations of reported child abuse or neglect

This bill amends Montana's child welfare laws by updating and clarifying key definitions used in investigations of child abuse and neglect. It directly affects the Department of Public Health and Human Services, law enforcement, and families involved in child protection cases by establishing consistent terminology for terms like "abandoned," "abused or neglected," and "adequate health care." The legislation clarifies that religious objections to medical treatment do not automatically constitute abuse, while still allowing state intervention when a child faces imminent serious harm. Additionally, it expands the definition of child abuse to include exposure to drug distribution and trafficking, while excluding self-defense actions and parental inability to control behavior from abuse classifications.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Oct 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Oct 4, 2024 Last action Feb 20, 2025
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