In Montana, the mini-FTC act is the Montana – Consumer Protection Act.  Under this legislation, plaintiffs have a cause of action when any person employing unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce; which are unlawful.  To sustain an action, the plaintiff must show actual harm due to the defendant’s conduct.  There is no statute of limitations for actions under the statute.

            A successful plaintiff is entitled to <damages, punitive damages at the court’s discretion and any other equitable relief that the court considers necessary or proper.> as potential remedies for a violation.  Damages under the statute are capped at the greater of actual damages or $500; OR up to three times the actual damages sustained, at the court’s discretion, and attorneys’ fees are recoverable by the prevailing party.  Class actions are not permitted under the statute.