MT HB529

Expands venue options for lien enforcement actions from district court only to any court of competent jurisdiction in the county where the contract was entered, the owner resided, or the property is located

Eliminates the requirement for issuance or service of a summons, replacing it with an order to show cause that serves in lieu of a summons under Montana civil procedure rules

Extends the notice period for property owners from 5 days to 21 days before the hearing date, with service required by certified mail (return receipt requested) and first-class mail

Removes the previous 20-working-day deadline for scheduling hearings after issuance of the order to show cause

Amends Section 71-3-1203, MCA, governing enforcement of liens for unpaid work, labor, services, feed, or materials when payment is not made within 30 days