MT SB385

Creates a new Montana Government Claims Court with three judges appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate, serving staggered 6-year terms with salaries 20% higher than Supreme Court associate justices

Grants the court jurisdiction over constitutional challenges to state actions (legislation, administrative rules, permits, ballot measures), judicial review of contested agency cases under Title 75 and Title 82, and asbestos-related civil claims

Allows parties to remove cases from district court to the government claims court within 30 days if both courts have concurrent jurisdiction, with procedures for remand if removal is improper

Requires the court to use Montana Rules of Civil Procedure and Evidence, with offices in Helena and the option to use old supreme court chambers in the state capitol when the legislature is not in session

Effective July 1, 2025, applying to civil actions filed on or after October 1, 2025, with existing asbestos cases eligible for removal within 180 days of the effective date