This bill establishes a Sexual Assault Response Network Program within the Department of Justice, which includes the formation of a Sexual Assault Response Team Committee. The committee is tasked with adopting educational and clinical standards for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, ensuring that they are adequately trained to respond to such cases. Additionally, the bill provides for the appointment of a Sexual Assault Response Network Program Coordinator, outlines payment standards and processes for services rendered, and mandates periodic reviews of these standards and processes to ensure they remain effective and relevant.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for rulemaking authority and defines key terms related to the program. It amends existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically sections 5-11-222 and 46-15-405, to incorporate these new measures. The overall aim of the legislation is to enhance the response to sexual assault cases through improved coordination, training, and standards within the justice system.

Statutes affected:
HB0079_1.pdf: 5-11-222, 46-15-405
HB0079_2.pdf: 5-11-222, 46-15-405
HB0079_3.pdf: 5-11-222, 46-15-405
HB0079_4.pdf: 5-11-222, 46-15-405
Amended: 5-11-222, 46-15-405
Introduced: 5-11-222, 46-15-405