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Debate in committee over bill that would expand 'harboring' to include persons unlawfully present

House Judiciary · April 1, 2025
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Summary

Rep. Lucas Schubert’s HB896 would add persons unlawfully present to state obstructing‑justice/harboring statutes; proponents called it a cleanup of existing law, while nonprofits, shelters and refugee advocates warned it would criminalize aid to vulnerable people and lack clear definitions for 'harboring.'

Representative Lucas Schubert introduced House Bill 896, proposing to include persons unlawfully present in Montana within existing state obstructing‑justice and harboring statutes. Schubert described the measure as a clarification using existing statutory language that applies to other offenders; he said the change would hold people who knowingly conceal or assist those evading law enforcement accountable.

Opponents—ranging from the Montana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, homelessness shelters,…

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