Vetoed by Governor Greg Gianforte

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits state agencies from denying individual records request because of ongoing litigation.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a public officer to withhold information relating to individual or public safety or the security of public facilities if the released information jeopardizes the safety of facility personnel (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits a public officer from withholding any more information than is required to protect individuals, public safety, or the security of public facilities (Sec. 1). 

• Authorizes the Montana historical society to honor information restrictions imposed by private donors as long as they do not apply to public information (Sec. 1). 

• Requires that restrictions must expire 50 years after the private record was received and made accessible to the public (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits a public agency from refusing to disclose public information because the requested information is part of litigation unless protected under another law (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits state agencies from denying individual records request because of ongoing litigation.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a public officer to withhold information relating to individual or public safety or the security of public facilities if the released information jeopardizes the safety of facility personnel (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits a public officer from withholding any more information than is required to protect individuals, public safety, or the security of public facilities (Sec. 1). 

• Authorizes the Montana historical society to honor information restrictions imposed by private donors as long as they do not apply to public information (Sec. 1). 

• Requires that restrictions must expire 50 years after the private record was received and made accessible to the public (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits a public agency from refusing to disclose public information because the requested information is part of litigation unless protected under another law (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text