Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to codify the separation of powers doctrine in Montana by clearly delineating the powers and limitations of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government. The bill introduces new sections that specify these powers, emphasizing that they are confined to those outlined in the Montana Constitution. It notably removes previous language that permitted broader interpretations of these powers, ensuring that no branch can exercise the powers designated to another branch. This aims to reinforce the checks and balances essential to the state's governance.

Additionally, the bill details the authority of the legislative branch, including the roles of the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as the executive branch and its officers. It also introduces new legal language regarding the judicial branch, specifying the powers of the Supreme Court, district courts, and justice courts, and clarifying that judicial power cannot be exercised by other branches. The bill amends existing sections related to the Board of Regents and the Board of Public Education, reinforcing their responsibilities while ensuring they respect individual rights as outlined in the U.S. and Montana constitutions. The proposed changes are intended to be integrated into Title 1, chapter 1 of the Montana Code Annotated, with an effective date upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(1): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(10): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(11): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(12): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(2): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(3): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(4): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(5): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(6): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(7): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(8): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1(9): 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507
SB0044_1: 2-15-1505, 2-15-1507