The bill amends Section 2-15-2305 of the Montana Code Annotated to increase the size of the Board of Pardons and Parole from five to six members. This change aims to enhance the board's capacity and effectiveness. The qualifications for board members remain the same, requiring either a college degree in relevant fields, extensive work experience in corrections or criminal justice, or a law degree. The bill also emphasizes the importance of balancing members' expertise in areas such as American Indian culture, mental health, and victim awareness.

Additionally, the bill outlines a transition plan for appointing the new member, requiring the governor to appoint the sixth member within 60 days of the bill's effective date, which is set for July 1, 2025. This new member will serve a term ending on January 1, 2029, after which they may be reappointed for a full six-year term. The appointment must also be confirmed by the Senate, ensuring legislative oversight in the selection process.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(1): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(2): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(3): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(4): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(5): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(6): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1(7): 2-15-2305
HB0186_1: 2-15-2305
HB0186_X(1): 2-15-2305
HB0186_X(2): 2-15-2305
HB0186_X(3): 2-15-2305
HB0186_X(4): 2-15-2305
HB0186_X(5): 2-15-2305
HB0186_X: 2-15-2305