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Bill would declare legislative "junk files" public while protecting personal notes
Summary
Representative Staffman told the House committee HB 272 would codify that legislative bill-drafting files ("junk files") are public records, clarify what remains confidential, and restore longstanding access the public has used for decades, supporters said.
Representative Ed Staffman opened House Bill 272 by saying the measure is designed to resolve confusion about whether legislative bill-drafting files are public records. Staffman and proponents argued the files — which can include draft versions, communications, redlines and materials from third parties — historically have been available under Montana precedent and the bill would affirm that practice while explicitly preserving personal writings and some privileged staff communications.
Staffman…
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