Senate Bill No. [number], introduced by D. Emrich and V. Ricci, aims to revise and codify the laws regarding the separation of powers doctrine in Montana. The bill defines the powers of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as well as the powers of the Board of Regents of Higher Education and the Board of Public Education. It establishes that the powers of the executive and judicial branches are limited to those specified in the Montana Constitution and by law, and it prohibits the legislature from enacting laws contrary to the constitution or exercising powers designated for the other branches. Additionally, the bill outlines the specific powers and limitations of the Board of Regents and the Board of Public Education, emphasizing their roles as executive agencies required to enforce state laws.

The bill includes amendments to Sections 2-15-1505 and 2-15-1507 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), clarifying that both the Board of Regents and the Board of Public Education are executive agencies responsible for complying with and enforcing state law within their jurisdictions. New sections are added to codify the definitions and powers of each branch of government, ensuring that the rights of the people are protected within the educational institutions governed by these boards. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0476_1(1): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0476_1(2): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0476_1(3): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0476_1(4): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0476_1: 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507