Montana Code Annotated 2023

TITLE 33. INSURANCE AND INSURANCE COMPANIES

CHAPTER 17. INSURANCE PRODUCERS, ADJUSTERS, CONSULTANTS, AND ADMINISTRATORS

Part 16. Bail Bond Insurance License

Surety Bail Bond Insurance License -- Basic Course Of Training -- Temporary License

33-17-1602. (Effective January 1, 2024) Surety bail bond insurance license -- basic course of training -- temporary license. (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, an applicant for a surety bail bond insurance license shall satisfactorily complete a basic course of training for bail enforcement agents that is approved by the commissioner.

(2) The basic course of training must consist of at least 40 hours of training that includes instruction in:

(a) the following areas of the law:

(i) constitutional law;

(ii) procedures for arresting a defendant and surrendering a defendant into custody;

(iii) civil liability;

(iv) the civil rights of a person who is detained in custody;

(v) the use of force; and

(vi) the history and principles of bail;

(b) procedures for field operations, including without limitation:

(i) handling a person with mental illness or a person who is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance; and

(ii) the care and custody of a prisoner;

(c) the skills required of bail enforcement agents, including without limitation:

(i) writing reports and completing forms;

(ii) methods of arrest;

(iii) nonlethal weapons;

(iv) the safe retention of weapons;

(v) qualifications for the use of firearms; and

(vi) defensive tactics; and

(d) the following subjects:

(i) first aid used in emergencies; and

(ii) cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

(3) In lieu of completing the basic course of training required by subsection (1), an applicant may submit proof to the commissioner that the applicant has completed a course of training required by a municipal, state, or federal law enforcement agency or a branch of the armed forces to carry out the duties of a peace officer.

(4) An applicant for a surety bail bond insurance license shall complete the training required by this section within 12 months after the date the applicant is employed by a licensed surety bail bond agent. The commissioner may issue a temporary license to an applicant who has not completed the training if the applicant is otherwise qualified to be issued a license as a surety bail bond agent. The temporary license:

(a) authorizes the applicant to act as a surety bail bond agent while employed by a licensed surety bail bond agent;

(b) is valid for up to 12 months; and

(c) may not be renewed.

History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 592, L. 2023.