WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

LC 2220

Prohibiting warrantless surveillance in Montana by any law enforcement agency

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would require law enforcement to obtain warrants before conducting surveillance, eliminating warrantless tracking and monitoring powers but died before formal consideration.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
#criminalprocedure #lawenforcement
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 2220

Legislative bill overview

LC 2220 would prohibit Montana law enforcement agencies from conducting surveillance on individuals without obtaining a warrant first. The bill died in the legislative process on May 20, 2025, before advancing to formal introduction or committee review.

Why is this important

Warrantless surveillance powers significantly impact privacy rights and civil liberties. This bill addresses ongoing debates about law enforcement's use of technology like cell-site simulators, facial recognition, and location tracking without judicial oversight, which disproportionately affects vulnerable communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement pushback: Police agencies typically argue warrantless surveillance is necessary for emergency situations, rapid response to crimes, and officer safety
  • Definition scope: Disagreement likely exists over what constitutes "surveillance" and whether exceptions should exist for national security, terrorism investigations, or exigent circumstances
  • Implementation burden: Uncertainty about practical impacts on investigations, whether warrants can be obtained quickly enough, and resource costs for agencies to comply

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

Sign in to ask a question.