The bill aims to revise the enforcement procedures for legislative subpoenas in Montana, establishing a clear process for addressing instances where a witness or individual fails to comply. It allows either house of the legislature or its committees to commit a non-compliant witness for criminal contempt. If the legislature is in session, a simple resolution can be introduced to document the contempt, while if it is not in session, a proclamation of contempt can be sent to members for a vote. The bill outlines the voting process, including the use of electronic means for ballot submission, and specifies that a majority vote is required for the proclamation to be adopted.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify the definitions and procedures related to contempt of the legislature. It introduces a misdemeanor penalty for those found guilty of criminal contempt, which includes failing to appear as a witness, refusing to testify, or not producing requested records. The amendments to Sections 5-5-109 and 5-11-107 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) include new language that specifies the authority of legislative committees to issue subpoenas and the process for enforcing compliance through contempt proceedings. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1(1): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1(2): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1(3): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1(4): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1(5): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_1: 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(1): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(2): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(3): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(4): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(5): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(6): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(7): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X(8): 5-5-109, 5-11-107
SB0457_X: 5-5-109, 5-11-107