Bill > HB376

This bill establishes a formal process for legislators to request information from state agencies during the legislative session, with specific rules and consequences for non-compliance. Under the bill, a legislator can make a written request for information, which must be provided to the agency director within 5 legislative days. Legislators are limited to one written request per week, and the request must be focused on a single bill or specific issue. If an agency fails to provide the requested information, the legislator can submit a written complaint to the committee responsible for the general appropriations act. This committee must then schedule a hearing within 3 legislative days, where the agency director and legislator can present their perspectives. Following the hearing, the committee may vote to reduce the agency's budget by up to 5% for non-compliance. The hearing and committee vote must be recorded and shared with the senate president, house speaker, and governor within 10 days. The governor can then include the committee's findings in the agency director's personnel record and potentially impose disciplinary measures, including termination. The bill defines a "state agency" broadly to include various executive branch entities and provides that written communication includes electronic communication. The bill is effective immediately upon passage and is intended to be integrated into existing state government communication laws.

Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3067