Rep. Steve Fitzpatrick

Maddy summaryHB 112 requires Montana's Code Commissioner to correct outdated references in state laws, particularly regarding reporting requirements tied to Section 5-11-210 MCA. It directs the commissioner to adjust reports in Section 5-11-222 MCA whenever related references change, are repealed, or are terminated in new legislation. This procedural bill affects state agencies that submit reports to the legislature and ensures legal references remain accurate across Montana's code. The bill was signed into law by the Governor on April 3, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 115 revises Montana's code commissioner duties regarding the publication of the Montana Code Annotated. It clarifies key terms like "recodify" (including minor corrections to punctuation, spelling, and numbering) and defines "publication" as issuing in printed or electronic format. The bill removes requirements for the commissioner to publish certain historical documents (Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, Montana Constitution, etc.) and emphasizes incremental updates to the code rather than major structural changes. The law takes effect immediately upon the Governor's signature, as noted in the bill's effective date provision.

Maddy summaryHB 110 requires Montana's Legislative Services Division to provide electronic versions of all bills, resolutions, and amendments instead of selling paper copies. It eliminates the option to purchase single printed copies of legislative documents and ends the subscription service for mailed status sheets. This change directly affects anyone seeking legislative documents, such as researchers, journalists, or the public, by shifting access to digital formats. The law, effective immediately upon the Governor's signature on April 3, 2025, updates Section 5-11-212 of Montana law to mandate electronic access and remove paper-based sales.

Maddy summaryHB 409 amends Montana law to prohibit courts from using "sliding scale" tests like the "serious questions test" when reviewing requests for preliminary injunctions or temporary restraining orders. The bill requires courts to apply only the standard set by U.S. Supreme Court precedent, which focuses on four factors: likelihood of success on the merits, irreparable harm, balance of equities, and public interest. This directly affects Montana courts and anyone seeking emergency court orders to halt actions (e.g., property disputes or restraining orders). The law takes immediate effect upon signing, ensuring all injunction applications follow federal judicial standards instead of prior Montana court interpretations.

Maddy summaryHB 529 revises Montana's procedures for enforcing liens, which are claims by contractors, suppliers, or laborers for unpaid work or materials on property. It eliminates the need for a summons in lien enforcement cases, replacing it with an "order to show cause" that must be served on the property owner at least 21 days before a hearing via certified and first-class mail. The bill requires lienors to submit specific documents, including an affidavit detailing the work performed and an itemized list of unpaid charges, to support their claim. These changes streamline court filings, notices, and the sale process for property to satisfy outstanding liens.

Maddy summaryHR 1 is a procedural resolution adopting the official rules for the Montana House of Representatives. It establishes internal operating procedures by defining roles like the Speaker, majority/minority leaders, and whips, and outlining their duties - including presiding over sessions, managing legislative calendars, and ensuring orderly conduct. The rules also cover administrative functions, such as appointing staff (Chief Clerk, Sergeant-at-Arms) and handling legislative documents. This resolution directly affects all House members, leadership, and staff by setting the framework for how legislative business is conducted.