House Joint Resolution No. HJ 40 requests an interim study to evaluate the potential transfer of responsibility for producing fiscal notes from the executive branch to the legislative branch in Montana. Currently, fiscal notes, which estimate the financial impact of legislative bills, are prepared by the budget director in collaboration with state or local agencies. The resolution highlights that in several other states, this responsibility lies with the legislative fiscal analyst and staff, suggesting a possible shift in Montana's approach.

The resolution calls for the Legislative Council to designate an appropriate interim committee to conduct the study, with the support of the Legislative Services Division and the Legislative Fiscal Division for administrative and research needs. The study is required to be completed by September 15, 2026, and the findings, conclusions, and recommendations must be reported to the 70th Legislature.