Loading chat...

MT SB364

Bill

Status

Passed

5/8/2025

Primary Sponsor

Kenneth Bogner

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2025 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Entities are prohibited from remotely activating a kill switch on personally owned property without a court order or warrant, with "kill switch" defined as a mechanism that shuts down, performs a hard reset, hastens battery drainage, or shortens software lifespan

  • Exceptions include subscriptions and recurring-payment programs, leased devices enforcing installment/lease/rental agreements, motor vehicles subject to collections, and stolen property disabled with owner consent

  • Motor vehicle safety features are exempt, including those addressing imminent safety issues, driver incapacitation, inattentive drivers with automation engaged, automated driving system failures, and automatic engine shutoff for idling vehicles

  • Entities must disclose the existence and capability of kill switches prior to entering into agreements or contracts

  • Violations constitute unfair trade practices under Montana law, with individuals entitled to $10,000 statutory damages per violation plus additional damages, effective October 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Establish kill switch laws

Transportation

Last Action

Chapter Number Assigned

5/13/2025

Committee Referrals

Energy, Telecommunications, and Federal Relations3/17/2025
Energy, Technology & Federal Relations2/21/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available