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Bill to toughen fleeing-or-eluding elements wins police backing; committee seeks practical clarifications
Summary
HB 503 would add 'aggravated' elements to fleeing or eluding a peace officer — including reckless driving toward people, property damage over $5,000, or repeat offenses — while preserving existing penalties; law-enforcement groups supported the bill as a deterrent, and the committee asked operational questions about hand signals and pursuit policies.
Representative Denise Baum opened the hearing on House Bill 503, which revises elements of fleeing or eluding a peace officer and adds an aggravated-fleeing classification for conduct such as reckless driving toward a person or causing more than $5,000 in property damage. Baum said the bill clarifies misdemeanor and felony components without increasing present fines and penalties.
Proponents included the Montana Sheriffs & Peace Officers…
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