Bill
LC 4077
Overview: Bill Number: LC 4077, Title: Generally revise criminal justice laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2024Purpose and Intent: This bill aims t
Overview: Bill Number: LC 4077, Title: Generally revise criminal justice laws, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2024
Purpose and Intent: This bill aims to make comprehensive revisions to Montana's criminal justice laws. The primary goals are to enhance public safety, improve rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, and address racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
Key Provisions:
- Reclassifies certain nonviolent felonies as misdemeanors to reduce prison populations
- Expands eligibility for parole and early release programs for good behavior
- Mandates implicit bias training for law enforcement and court personnel
- Requires collection and public reporting of demographic data on arrests, charges, and sentencing
- Increases funding for mental health and substance abuse treatment programs in correctional facilities
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Individuals charged with nonviolent felonies would face reduced sentences and better opportunities for rehabilitation
- Law enforcement, judges, and other criminal justice personnel would receive additional training to address systemic biases
- The public would benefit from increased transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: This bill is currently in the draft stage and has not been formally introduced in the legislature. If passed, the provisions would take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing time for implementation and training.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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