Senate Bill No. introduced by D. Zolnikov aims to enhance government transparency by designating legislative bill drafting files as public records available upon request, in accordance with Montana's public records laws. The bill emphasizes the importance of public access to these files, which include various documents related to the drafting and preparation of legislation, such as draft versions, research materials, and communications between bill drafters and third parties. This initiative is rooted in the Montana Constitution's provisions for the right to know and the right of participation, reinforcing the public's ability to hold elected officials accountable.

The bill includes several new sections, notably defining legislative bill drafting files as public records and outlining their contents. It also introduces a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be effective. Additionally, the bill specifies that it will be codified as part of Title 2, chapter 6, part 10 of the Montana Code and will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.