Senate Bill No. introduced by D. Zolnikov establishes that legislative bill drafting files are public records available upon request in accordance with Montana's public records laws. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in government, aligning with the rights enshrined in the Montana Constitution. It defines legislative bill drafting files to include a comprehensive history of the drafting process, which may contain various documents such as draft versions of bills, research materials, legal analyses, and communications between bill drafters and third parties, regardless of whether legislators are included in those communications.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for severability, ensuring that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining valid sections will still be in effect. It also includes a codification instruction indicating that the new section regarding legislative bill drafting files will be integrated into existing law. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.