The bill seeks to amend Montana's laws regarding the confidentiality and access to child abuse and neglect investigation records, specifically through revisions to Sections 41-3-205 and 41-3-431. It clarifies exceptions to confidentiality, allowing for the disclosure of records to courts, licensed professionals, and family members under certain conditions. Notably, it introduces provisions for sharing information with departments or agencies involved in licensing decisions, but limits this to cases where allegations of abuse or neglect are substantiated. Additionally, the bill permits the media to confirm factual information about case handling, provided it does not infringe on the privacy rights of the child or their guardians.

Furthermore, the bill enhances discovery procedures in child custody proceedings by mandating that the department provide parents with access to relevant materials, including witness statements and case documentation. It also emphasizes the protection of the identities of individuals who report child abuse or neglect, ensuring their confidentiality is maintained throughout the legal process. Overall, the legislation aims to strike a balance between the need for transparency in child welfare cases and the protection of sensitive information.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(1): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(2): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(3): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(4): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(5): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1(6): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_1: 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(1): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(2): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(3): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(4): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(5): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(6): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(7): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2(8): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_2: 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X(1): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X(2): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X(3): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X(4): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X(5): 41-3-205, 41-3-431
SB0256_X: 41-3-205, 41-3-431