Bill enhances penalties for crimes against vulnerable Montanans
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News from Kyle Schmauch Chief of Staff & Communications Director for MT Senate Republicans
HELENA — The Senate Public Health Committee will hear a bill to enhance penalties for crimes against vulnerable Montanans.
Senate Bill 296 enhances the sentence of a person found guilty of an offense against a vulnerable person while working or volunteering in a caregiving facility.
The bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Republican Senator Mike Yakawich, R-Billings.
“There should be a higher level of accountability for people who are in caregiving roles, taking care of our communities’ most vulnerable members,” Yakawich said. “This bill provides an extra level of safety and justice for vulnerable Montanans.”
The bill is dubbed Alan’s Law, honoring a Montana victim of abuse in a caregiving facility who later passed away due to his injuries.
Caregiving facilities covered by SB 296 include behavioral health facilities, assisted living and long-term care facilities, community group homes, youth foster homes, halfway houses, daycares, and schools.
People found guilty of crimes against vulnerable people would face up to 10 extra years in prison under the bill.
The Senate Public Health Committee heard the bill on the afternoon of Feb. 19.
