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Bill

LC 2236

Require legislative review of agency regulations for applicability

2025 Regular Session

Bill requires Montana agencies to submit existing regulations for legislative review to assess applicability and necessity, potentially eliminating outdated or unnecessary rules.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 2236

Legislative bill overview

LC 2236 proposes requiring Montana state agencies to submit their existing regulations for legislative review to determine whether they remain applicable and necessary. The bill would establish a process for the state legislature to evaluate and potentially eliminate or modify agency rules that are outdated, redundant, or no longer serve their intended purpose.

Why is this important

This type of "regulatory review" or "sunset" mechanism affects how government operates by creating accountability for bureaucratic rules. It could reduce regulatory burden on businesses and individuals, but could also eliminate important consumer, environmental, or worker protections if reviews are not thorough. The process determines whether thousands of existing rules stay in effect or get removed.

Potential points of contention

  • Legislative capacity: Reviewing all existing agency regulations is resource-intensive; critics question whether the legislature has sufficient staff and time to conduct meaningful reviews without relying entirely on agency input
  • Regulatory certainty: Businesses and regulated entities may face uncertainty if rules could be eliminated or modified frequently, potentially creating compliance challenges
  • Protection of safeguards: Environmental, health, and safety advocates worry that streamlined review processes might eliminate important protections, particularly if review deadlines force quick decisions

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

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