Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to enhance the consultation process between state agencies and tribal governments in Montana. The bill mandates that state agencies develop written consultation policies and designate an employee as a tribal liaison to facilitate communication and collaboration with tribal governments. It defines "consultation" as a formal and interactive process where state agencies engage with tribal governments to discuss and consider their views on proposed actions that may affect tribal interests. Additionally, the bill establishes reporting requirements for state agencies to submit their consultation policies and activities to the governor annually, ensuring transparency and accountability in the government-to-government relationship.

The bill also revises existing laws by amending Sections 2-15-141 and 2-15-143 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). Key changes include the requirement for state agencies to collaborate with tribal governments in policy development and to keep written records of decisions made regarding the necessity of formal consultations. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of training for state agency employees on tribal relations and mandates annual meetings between the governor and tribal officials to address concerns and discuss potential solutions. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the partnership between state and tribal governments, ensuring that tribal perspectives are considered in state decision-making processes.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(1): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(10): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(11): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(2): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(3): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(4): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(5): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(6): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(7): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(8): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1(9): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_1: 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(1): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(10): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(11): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(12): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(2): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(3): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(4): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(5): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(6): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(7): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(8): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2(9): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_2: 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_3(1): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_3(2): 2-15-141, 2-15-143
SB0379_3: 2-15-141, 2-15-143