SB40

Revise supreme court public records laws by opening deliberations and files to the public

Vetoed·5/12/25

Montana SB40 revises public records laws to open supreme court deliberations and files to the public.

Montana SB40 revises public records laws by requiring the Montana Supreme Court to record closed judicial deliberations and make them available for public inspection after a case becomes final. The bill mandates that all meetings of public agencies, including the Supreme Court, be open to the public, with exceptions for matters involving individual privacy, litigation strategy, and confidential information. The act also amends definitions related to public records and meetings, ensuring transparency in judicial proceedings while protecting certain sensitive information.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

33 Yea

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17 Nay

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Calendar

Apr 25, 2025

4:00 PM

Free Conference Committee on SB 40 Hearing

Apr 3, 2025

8:00 AM

House Judiciary Hearing

History

Jun 27, 2025

Senate

(S) Veto Override Failed in Legislature

May 27, 2025

Senate

(S) Veto Override Vote Mail Poll in Progress

May 12, 2025

Senate

(S) Vetoed by Governor