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Bill

LC 4004

Generally revise laws regarding the department of justice

2025 Regular Session

Overview: Bill Number: LC 4004, Title: Generally revise laws regarding the department of justice, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2024Purpose and Inten

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 4004

Overview: Bill Number: LC 4004, Title: Generally revise laws regarding the department of justice, Status: (LC) Draft Died in Process, Introduced: December 15, 2024

Purpose and Intent: The primary purpose of this bill is to make a series of changes to the structure, responsibilities, and operations of the Montana Department of Justice (DOJ). The proposed revisions aim to enhance the department's efficiency, transparency, and accountability in serving the state's law enforcement and legal needs.

Key Provisions:
- Reorganizes the DOJ's internal structure, including the creation of new divisions and the consolidation of certain functions
- Expands the DOJ's investigative and enforcement powers, particularly in the areas of white-collar crime and consumer protection
- Mandates the development of a statewide law enforcement data-sharing system to improve coordination and information-sharing
- Requires the DOJ to conduct regular audits of local law enforcement agencies and report findings to the legislature
- Establishes new transparency and public reporting requirements for the department's activities and expenditures

Affected Parties and Impacts:
- The Montana Department of Justice, which would undergo significant organizational and operational changes
- State and local law enforcement agencies, which would be subject to increased oversight and data-sharing requirements
- Businesses and individuals who may be the targets of DOJ investigations or enforcement actions
- The general public, who would have greater access to information about the department's activities and performance

Procedural and Timeline Considerations: This bill is currently in the draft stage and has not been formally introduced in the Montana Legislature. If it were to be introduced and passed, the changes to the Department of Justice would likely be implemented over a 12-24 month period to allow for the necessary organizational and technological transitions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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