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Committee hears measure to let landlords return security deposits electronically
Summary
House Bill 444 would add electronic communications and electronic funds transfer as valid methods for landlords to provide required notices and to return security deposits; proponents included the Montana Association of Realtors, the Montana Landlord Association and student representatives.
Representative Paul Tuss told the Senate Judiciary Committee House Bill 444 would modernize landlord‑tenant statutes by permitting required notices to be sent by electronic mail and by allowing security deposits to be returned by electronic funds transfer, with tenant and landlord agreement.
Proponents said the bill simply updates an older statute to reflect common modern practices and would reduce stress and delay for tenants, especially students and those in rural areas. Daniel Cox of the Montana Association of Realtors said the change “allows the use of electronic funds transfer if the tenant and the landlord both agree to use it.” A witness identifying himself as a representative of the Montana Landlord Association supported the bill as an option that needs clear, precise language. A student representative from the Associated Students of the University of Montana emphasized benefits for students juggling moving and study schedules.
No opponents or informational witnesses were recorded during the hearing. The sponsor closed by thanking the committee; an amendment to resolve a minor language conflict was mentioned and the sponsor said a technical amendment would be filed to address it.
No executive‑action vote on HB 444 was recorded in the committee transcript provided; the bill remains at the hearing stage pending any technical edits requested by stakeholders.
