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Bill would let dealers file abandoned-vehicle lien claims in small or municipal courts instead of district court, sponsor says
Summary
Senate Bill 373 aims to ease how dealers and service providers clear abandoned vehicles from private lots by allowing lien claims in any court of competent jurisdiction rather than district court; proponents told the committee the change would save time and money, while no opponents appeared at the hearing.
Senate Bill 373, presented to the House Business and Labor Committee by Sen. Barry Usher, would amend Montana’s adjuster’s‑lien statute to let owners and service providers file claims in any court of competent jurisdiction — including small claims, municipal or justice courts — rather than requiring district court for all cases. Supporters told the committee the change would reduce time and legal expense for auto dealers, RV and boat dealers, contractors and farmers who hold property subject to liens.
Why it matters: Proponents said the current requirement to bring some lien matters in district court makes otherwise small, low‑value claims cost‑prohibitive. They urged the change would free up lot space, speed resolution and lower legal…
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