The Judiciary Committee heard testimony supporting House Bill 444, which would update Montana’s landlord‑tenant statutes to permit electronic communication for required notices and to allow security deposits to be returned by electronic funds transfer if the parties agree.

Representative Paul Tuss, the sponsor, said the bill simply modernizes current law by adding electronic mail and electronic fund transfer to the methods by which landlords and tenants can send notices and return security deposits. "It's that simple," Tuss said.

Proponents included the Montana Association of Realtors and the Montana Landlord Association, which urged a clarifying amendment to tidy language. Daniel Cox of the REALTORS noted the bill preserves choice — electronic transfer remains an option only if both parties agree — and said the group would provide a technical amendment to fix a minor inconsistency. John Synrude of the Montana Landlord Association said clarifying language is important so judges, landlords and tenants can apply the statute consistently.

Associated Students of the University of Montana also testified in favor, citing student needs for speed and flexibility when vacating rentals. The student representative said electronic returns would reduce stress and aid rural and disabled students who otherwise must rely on mail or in‑person pick up.

There were no opponents at the hearing. The sponsor closed by asking the committee to modernize the statute; he and proponents said they would work together on a technical language amendment before further action.

Why it matters: The bill updates an administrative, consumer‑facing part of landlord‑tenant law to reflect common electronic practices and reduce friction for tenants and landlords who mutually agree to electronic processes.