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Committee splits over bill barring financial discrimination against firearm owners; lenders and insurers warn of unintended harms
Summary
Senate Bill 176, which would bar banks and insurers from denying services over firearm ownership and impose civil penalties, drew strong support from gun-rights advocates and heavy opposition from banks, credit unions and insurers concerned about vagueness, compliance costs and unintended consequences. The committee did not advance the bill.
Senate Bill 176, sponsored by Sen. Ken Bogner, would broadly prohibit financial and insurance entities from discriminating against individuals or businesses because of firearm possession or related commerce and would require nondiscrimination certificates from providers. The bill assigns civil penalties for violations and creates a private right of action for harmed parties.
Sponsor Sen. Ken Bogner cited national reports about "debanking," framed the bill as protecting Montanans exercising Second Amendment rights and asked for the committee’s support.
Proponents included…
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