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 introduces new provisions that allow for the disclosure of these records to authorized agencies, health professionals, and family members under certain conditions, while ensuring the confidentiality of reporters' identities is maintained. A significant change includes a limitation on the use of disclosed information for licensing decisions and background checks, stipulating that only substantiated allegations may be considered. The bill also clarifies the process for disclosing records to members of Congress or the Montana legislature, requiring written inquiries and confidentiality agreements.

In addition, the bill enhances discovery procedures in child custody proceedings by mandating that the department provide relevant materials and information to parents involved in such cases. This includes access to statements, reports, and evidence related to the child abuse or neglect allegations. The amendments further reinforce protections for the identities of individuals who report child abuse or neglect, ensuring their confidentiality is preserved 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 concerning children and families.

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