MT HB303

Amends Section 27-1-703, MCA to clarify that apportionment rules apply specifically to fault allocation on verdict forms by the finder of fact

Allows a party in a lawsuit to present evidence and argue that a nonparty was the sole cause of the claimant's injuries without formally seeking apportionment of fault

Removes references to strict liability and breach of warranty claims from the settled/released party defense provisions, limiting that defense to negligence actions

Requires defendants who seek to apportion fault on a verdict form to notify settled or released persons by certified mail, but this notification requirement does not apply when simply arguing a nonparty caused all injuries

Clarifies the distinction between arguing sole causation as a defense strategy versus formally requesting the jury apportion percentages of fault among multiple parties