Bill Would Add Exposure to Marijuana to Child Endangerment Laws

Montana lawmakers are attempting to add to the crime of child endangerment, including exposure to marijuana.

Senate Bill 261 would make exposing a child to marijuana and other dangerous drugs, which would include fentanyl, or forcing them to consume the drugs a punishable offense. It would also criminalize assisting minors in entering marijuana dispensaries.

Sen. Greg Hertz, R-Polson, is carrying the bill. In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing Feb. 12, Hertz said SB 261 gives law enforcement agents more tools to protect the safety of children.

“Children look up to their parents and their beh...