Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise the legal requirements for standing in lawsuits within the state of Montana. The bill establishes that the judiciary's authority is limited to adjudicating claims where the claimant has and maintains legal standing, which is defined by three key elements: injury, causation, and redressability. The bill specifies that a claimant must demonstrate a specific, real, and concrete injury or an immediate threat of injury caused by the party being sued, and that the court has the power to grant effective relief. It further clarifies that generalized grievances, speculative threats, or claims based solely on public importance do not suffice to establish legal standing.

The bill includes several new sections that codify these requirements, emphasizing that standing cannot be based on a claimant's status as a citizen, resident, or taxpayer who merely disagrees with government policies. Additionally, the bill sets an effective date of July 1, 2025, and states that it will apply to legal proceedings initiated on or after this date. The intent is to ensure that the courts operate within their constitutional limits and do not overstep their authority by deciding cases where the parties lack proper standing.