Bill > HB65

This bill requires a one-time financial performance audit of the Montana State Bar, to be conducted by the legislative auditor by December 15, 2026. The audit will comprehensively examine the organization's funding sources, financial history over the past 10 years, and analyze its budgets, costs, and functions. The legislative auditor must scope the audit based on the State Bar's financial, operational, and technological risks, while being explicitly prohibited from examining confidential documents such as attorney disciplinary files, trust account information, character and fitness reports, and continuing legal education records. The audit will be fully funded by the judicial branch and will be presented to the legislative audit committee, with subsequent delivery to specific legislative committees and publication on the legislative audit division's website. Additionally, the bill amends the definition of "state agency" in existing law to include entities created by or subject to supervision by the Montana Supreme Court, which potentially broadens the scope of potential future audits. The audit aims to provide transparency and accountability for the State Bar's operations and financial management.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/20251/LC0619