Montana 2025 Regular Session

Montana House Bill HB691

Introduced
2/24/25  
Refer
2/24/25  
Engrossed
3/7/25  
Refer
3/17/25  

Caption

Provide for legislative intent regarding the Montana criminal justice data warehouse

Impact

The implementation of HB 691 is expected to enhance the capacity of state and local agencies to make data-driven decisions regarding criminal justice policies and practices. By establishing a structured, secure, and comprehensive data collection and analysis framework, the bill aims to improve public safety and ensure that officials have access to critical information about offenders, which can help in predicting future offenses and tailoring rehabilitation efforts. This initiative may lead to more effective management of convicted individuals and potentially reduce rates of repeat offenses.

Summary

House Bill 691 aims to revise laws related to the Montana criminal justice data warehouse, emphasizing the importance of this data repository in facilitating analysis for informed decision-making by state and local officials regarding the criminal justice system. The bill outlines legislative intent and purpose for the data warehouse, which is designed to collect and maintain comprehensive data about criminal histories, offenses, and other relevant information. This data would serve as a critical tool for analyzing recidivism rates and the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs for offenders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 691 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers who see the value in utilizing data to inform criminal justice policies. Proponents argue that having a centralized database can streamline various processes within the legal system, enhance accountability, and foster initiatives aimed at reducing crime rates. However, while there may be broad support for the concept, there could be concerns raised regarding data privacy and the potential for misuse of sensitive information in the data warehouse.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 691 may revolve around the governance of data privacy and security protocols within the criminal justice data warehouse. Critics might raise alarms about the extent to which personal information is stored and shared, potentially impacting civil liberties. Additionally, there could be discussions about who has access to the data and the potential implications for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, particularly those with prior offenses. The focus on transparency and responsible data usage will be essential to alleviate these concerns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT HB117

Establish criminal justice data warehouse priorities

MT SJ43

Study of the criminal justice data warehouse

MT SB6

Establish criminal justice data warehouse priorities

MT H1521

Criminal Justice

MT HB1616

Criminal justice omnibus act; create.

MT SB2730

Relating To Criminal Justice Reform.

MT SB54

Criminal Justice Changes

MT HB2494

Relating To Criminal Justice Reform.

MT HB1739

Corrections Overview Task Force; establish and repeal Corrections and Criminal Justice Task Force.

MT HB128

Relating To Criminal Justice Reform.

Similar Bills

MT HB890

Generally revise criminal procedure law

MT HB117

Establish criminal justice data warehouse priorities

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