Bill aimed at tackling shoplifting, misdemeanor crimes becomes Montana law
A combo bill to give police more leeway in making low-level arrests and to provide retailers with a new tool against shoplifters has become law.
The bill, brought in response to criminal justice reforms passed in 2017, was a dual effort by police and retailers to regain ground on disorderly calls and misdemeanor thefts.
Gov. Steve Bullock received HB 421 on May 1 but let the 10-day window to sign or veto it pass. That allows the measure to become law without his signature.
The bill, carried by Rep. Julie Dooling, R-Helena, restores the possibility of arrest on certain misdemeanor offenses, after it had been taken away amid a major reform of the state’s criminal justice system.
Read more: https://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/bill-aimed-at-tackling-shoplifting-misdemeanor-crimes-becomes-montana-law/article_598d492d-3b63-5d33-8701-9a2bb00b3770.html
(Helena Independent Record)