Bill > SB282

This bill strengthens privacy protections by significantly limiting how state and local government agencies can obtain and use personal electronic data. The legislation prohibits governmental entities from purchasing various types of sensitive electronic information, including electronic communications, geolocation data, customer network information, and other personal digital data, except through a court-issued search warrant or investigative subpoena. The bill amends existing Montana law to clarify that electronic data can only be obtained under specific circumstances, such as with the owner's consent, during an emergency involving potential danger, or through judicially recognized exceptions to warrant requirements. Importantly, the bill establishes that any evidence obtained in violation of these new restrictions is inadmissible in civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings and cannot be used to obtain future search warrants. The legislation provides narrow exceptions, such as allowing data collection for undercover law enforcement operations, emergency services responses, and within correctional facilities. Additionally, the bill mandates that electronic communications collected during investigations must be deleted after the investigation and all appeals are concluded, further protecting individuals' privacy rights by preventing prolonged retention of personal digital information.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0061