This joint resolution requests an interim study of Montana's child abuse and neglect registry, highlighting the need for compliance with the federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act. The resolution notes that Montana has historically included individuals without substantiated cases of abuse on the registry and has not provided an expungement process, which is a violation of federal law. The resolution emphasizes the negative impact of registry inclusion on individuals' employment and volunteer opportunities, while also underscoring the importance of protecting children from unsafe adults.

The interim committee designated for this study will monitor the implementation of an expungement process established in SB 468 (2025) and examine various aspects of the registry, including the notice and hearing process for individuals added to the registry, the duration of listings, and the potential for concurrent hearings. The committee is also tasked with providing input to the Department of Public Health and Human Services regarding the registry's rules and crafting legislation to refine the registry's processes, including the expungement procedure. The study's findings and recommendations are to be reported to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.