Senate Bill No. [insert number] amends Section 5-5-109 of the Montana Code Annotated to allow legislative committees, including those from the Senate, House, or joint committees, to hold witnesses in contempt if they refuse to comply with a legislative subpoena. The bill specifies that a majority vote from the committee is required to commit a witness for contempt, replacing the previous requirement of a resolution entered on the journal. This change aims to streamline the process of enforcing compliance with subpoenas issued by legislative committees.

Additionally, the bill establishes that individuals who neglect or refuse to obey a subpoena under the specified subsections are guilty of a misdemeanor, with penalties outlined in 46-18-212. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, emphasizing the urgency of enhancing legislative oversight and accountability.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 5-5-109
SB0016_1(1): 5-5-109
SB0016_1(2): 5-5-109
SB0016_1(3): 5-5-109
SB0016_1(4): 5-5-109
SB0016_1(5): 5-5-109
SB0016_1(6): 5-5-109
SB0016_1: 5-5-109