The bill amends Section 41-3-205 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to expand the access of legislators to child abuse and neglect investigation records. Specifically, it stipulates that access to these records must now include drug testing results conducted by the department, both in the field and in a laboratory. This change aims to enhance the ability of legislators to review and assess the effectiveness of laws protecting children from abuse and neglect.

In addition to the new provision regarding drug testing results, the bill maintains existing confidentiality measures surrounding the disclosure of child abuse and neglect records. It outlines the circumstances under which these records can be shared with various entities, including courts, health professionals, and family members, while ensuring that the identities of reporters and other individuals involved remain protected. The bill emphasizes the importance of confidentiality in handling sensitive information related to child welfare.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 41-3-205
SB0248_1(1): 41-3-205
SB0248_1(2): 41-3-205
SB0248_1(3): 41-3-205
SB0248_1(4): 41-3-205
SB0248_1(5): 41-3-205
SB0248_1: 41-3-205
SB0248_2: 41-3-205
SB0248_X(1): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(2): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(3): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(4): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(5): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(6): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(7): 41-3-205
SB0248_X(8): 41-3-205
SB0248_X: 41-3-205