The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding legislative subpoenas and contempt proceedings. Under the new provisions, a witness who neglects or refuses to comply with a legislative subpoena may be held in contempt if the chairperson of a committee or the Senate President or House Speaker issues an order of contempt after the witness has been given notice and an opportunity for a hearing. This contrasts with the current law, which allows for contempt to be committed by a resolution of the Senate or House without the requirement for a hearing. Additionally, the bill specifies that all testimony produced in legislative proceedings must be sworn testimony under penalty of perjury, enhancing the seriousness of the testimony provided.

Furthermore, the bill expands the authority to arrest a non-compliant witness to include county sheriffs, in addition to the sergeant-at-arms. It also clarifies the process for issuing contempt orders, requiring that they be signed by the chairperson or legislative leaders and countersigned by the appropriate clerical officers. The amendments aim to streamline the contempt process and ensure that all testimony is treated with the gravity of sworn statements, thereby reinforcing the integrity of legislative proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1153
House Engrossed Version: 41-1153
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1152, 41-1153, 41-1151