MT HB257

Adds broadband and wired communications infrastructure to the definition of "critical infrastructure facility," including headends, poles, coaxial and fiber optic lines, and attached equipment

Removes the requirement that critical infrastructure facilities must be enclosed by a fence or marked with no-entry signs to qualify for protection under the law

Changes the criminal intent standard from "willfully and knowingly" to "purposely or knowingly" for trespass and damage offenses at critical infrastructure facilities

Maintains existing penalties: felony trespass with intent to damage carries up to $4,500 fine and/or 18 months imprisonment; damage over $1,500 carries up to $150,000 fine and/or 30 years imprisonment

Organizations found in conspiracy with persons committing these crimes may be fined up to 10 times the individual penalty amount