The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding legislative subpoenas and contempt procedures. It would establish that all testimony authorized by the legislature is considered sworn testimony under the penalty of perjury. Additionally, it would create a new process for handling witnesses who refuse to comply with subpoenas, allowing them an opportunity to present evidence in a hearing to demonstrate why they should not be held in contempt. If the committee or legislative leaders determine that the witness had prior knowledge of the subpoena and the ability to comply but still refused, they can officially declare the witness in contempt.

Furthermore, the bill would authorize the Sergeant at Arms or a county sheriff to arrest non-compliant witnesses and compel their appearance before the legislature based on a contempt order signed by the appropriate legislative leaders. The language of the current statutes would be updated to reflect these changes, including the removal of outdated terms and the addition of clarifying language regarding the procedures for contempt and the roles of legislative officials in enforcing compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1152, 41-1153, 41-1151