This bill aims to revise various laws related to the judiciary in Montana, specifically focusing on the issuance of subpoenas by Supreme Court justices or district court judges for investigations conducted by internet crimes against children task force officers. It establishes that these judges may issue subpoenas for testimony and documents relevant to offenses involving the sexual exploitation of minors, provided that the task force officer's affidavit indicates that such action is necessary for the administration of justice. Additionally, the bill includes a definition of "internet crimes against children task force officer" and outlines the types of records that may be subpoenaed.

Furthermore, the bill reallocates the judicial standards commission to the Department of Justice for administrative purposes while ensuring that the commission operates independently and may hire its own personnel. It also prohibits a district court judge from serving as the presiding officer of the commission. The bill amends existing sections to clarify the Supreme Court's authority over court rules and establishes a new burden of proof for challenges to legislative acts based on constitutional violations. The effective dates for various sections of the bill are also specified, with some provisions taking effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 3-1-1101, 3-2-701