This bill aims to revise the laws governing standing masters in the judicial system. Key provisions include the requirement for standing orders to be posted on either the district court's or the judicial branch's website, allowing parties to object to references made to a standing master, and mandating hearings if requested. Additionally, the bill stipulates that district courts must review the findings of fact and conclusions of law made by standing masters, establishes qualifications for standing masters, and outlines the processes for their disqualification and removal.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that standing masters are considered state employees, ensuring a clear understanding of their status within the judicial framework. It amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically sections 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, and 3-5-901, to incorporate these changes. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
HB0322_1.pdf: 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, 3-5-901
HB0322_2.pdf: 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, 3-5-901
HB0322_3.pdf: 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, 3-5-901
Amended: 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, 3-5-901
Introduced: 3-5-124, 3-5-125, 3-5-126, 3-5-901