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Bill

LC 547

Revise requirements for rental security deposit refund

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would revise landlord requirements for returning rental security deposits to tenants, addressing timeline and deduction standards.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 547

Legislative bill overview

LC 547 would modify Montana's existing requirements governing how landlords must handle and return rental security deposits to tenants. The bill died in the legislative drafting process before being formally introduced, so specific revisions are unclear from available records. This appears to be a consumer protection measure related to rental housing practices.

Why is this important

Security deposit disputes are among the most common landlord-tenant conflicts, affecting thousands of renters annually in Montana. Clear, enforceable refund requirements protect tenants from wrongful withholding while also providing landlords with legal clarity on acceptable deductions and timelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of allowable deductions: Disagreement over whether deposits can cover "normal wear and tear" versus damage, and how those terms are defined
  • Timeline for refunds: Tension between tenant advocates wanting faster returns and landlords requesting reasonable timeframes to assess damages
  • Interest and account requirements: Whether landlords must pay interest on held deposits or maintain separate escrow accounts, affecting compliance costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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