Bill > HB595

This bill establishes a Montana Correctional Education Program within the Department of Corrections that will provide educational opportunities for inmates, specifically high school equivalency and adult basic education programs. The bill sets clear qualifications for instructors teaching these programs, requiring them to be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, and possessing one of four specific credentials: an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, a teaching certificate from another state, or prior teaching experience (including military training). Notably, the bill explicitly states that the Department of Corrections cannot require instructors to hold a Montana teacher or specialist certificate, which may lower barriers to hiring qualified educators. The department is granted the authority to develop policies determining which inmates can participate in the educational program. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is intended to be integrated into Title 53, Chapter 30, Part 1 of Montana state law, with the goal of expanding educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals and providing flexible hiring standards for correctional education instructors.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0856