This bill aims to clarify the calculation of compensation and expenses for legislators when they are not in session. It amends Sections 2-18-502 and 5-2-302 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). Key changes include the introduction of specific compensation structures based on the distance traveled for meetings, with provisions for meal allowances and lodging. For instance, legislators attending meetings in person will receive different compensation based on whether they travel 100 miles or less, between 100 and 400 miles, or 400 miles or more. Additionally, the bill specifies that legislators participating remotely are entitled to a full day's salary for each 24-hour period.

The bill also modifies the eligibility criteria for meal allowances and clarifies that appointed members of state boards, commissions, or councils are entitled to a midday meal allowance regardless of the meeting's proximity to their residence. It removes previous language that limited meal allowances for legislative committee members during sessions. The bill emphasizes that compensation and expenses must be authorized by the appropriate funding authority and provides an immediate effective date upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-18-502, 5-2-302
SB0064_1: 2-18-502, 5-2-302
SB0064_1(1): 2-18-502, 5-2-302