MT SJ30

Legislative Council would designate an interim committee to study Montana's child abuse and neglect registry, with findings reported to the 70th Legislature

Committee would monitor implementation of the expungement process established in SB 468 (2025), including rulemaking by the Department of Public Health and Human Services

Study would examine the department's notice and hearing procedures, including individuals' right to appeal before being added to the registry and potential right to counsel

Committee would evaluate whether minimum and maximum listing durations and record destruction timeframes adequately balance child safety with the rights of listed individuals

All study aspects must be concluded by September 15, 2026, with the committee developing legislation to codify and refine registry procedures including expungement