Criminal Justice (Children)

Senate Joint Resolution 36 (SJ 36) requests an interim study on standardizing the prosecution of dependent neglect and child abuse cases in Montana. The study will evaluate the feasibility of expanding the Department of Justice's Child Protection Unit to handle these cases statewide. This aims to address inconsistencies in how these cases are currently handled across different judicial districts. The goal is to improve outcomes for children, ensure due process for all parties, and enhance the overall effectiveness and fairness of Montana's child welfare system. The final results of this study will be reported to the 70th Legislature.