Montana 2025 Regular Session

Montana House Bill HB110

Introduced
12/26/24  
Refer
12/30/24  
Engrossed
1/27/25  
Refer
1/27/25  
Enrolled
3/17/25  

Caption

Revise legislative services requirements to provide certain printed session information

Impact

The impact of HB 110 is significant as it modernizes the way legislative information is distributed. By shifting to a primarily electronic format, the bill is likely to lower costs for both the Legislative Services Division and users who access these documents. This change promotes greater efficiency and aligns with contemporary practices, as many government institutions are converting to digital platforms for information dissemination. The requirement of offering a subscription service further ensures that individuals interested in legislative updates can conveniently receive the information they need without incurring excessive costs.

Summary

House Bill 110 aims to amend the requirements under which the Legislative Services Division provides printed documentation related to legislative sessions. The main change proposed by this bill is the elimination of the requirement for the division to sell single copies of bills, resolutions, and amendments. Instead, it mandates that the Legislative Services Division provide electronic versions of these documents, transitioning towards a more digital approach in legislative communication. This change could greatly enhance the accessibility of legislative materials for the public and reduce costs associated with printing and distributing paper copies.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 110 appears to be generally positive, particularly among advocates of transparency and efficiency in government. Supporters argue that the bill will facilitate easier access to legislative documents, ultimately leading to improved public engagement and understanding of legislative processes. However, there may be concern regarding the potential loss of physical copies for those who prefer traditional formats or may not have reliable access to electronic resources, which could create disparities in access to information.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a move towards improved efficiency, there may still be points of contention regarding accessibility. Critics could argue that relying exclusively on electronic formats may disenfranchise certain segments of the population, such as those without internet access. Furthermore, the transition to a subscription model for ongoing status updates may lead to concerns about affordability and equality of access to legislative information. Ultimately, while the bill aims to simplify processes, it is essential to consider how these changes might impact different demographics within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.