Bill > HB245

This bill revises the Montana HELP Act's workforce development provisions, primarily focusing on modifications to employment and reemployment services for individuals receiving healthcare assistance. The bill removes previous requirements for contracting with private entities to provide workforce development services and instead mandates that the department directly assist program participants through employment assessments that identify potential barriers to employment. The workforce development services now include education and training, as well as supportive services like assistance with clothing, transportation, and equipment needed to obtain or maintain employment. The department is required to report quarterly on various metrics such as the number of clients enrolled, services provided, credentials attained, and employment outcomes. The bill also introduces provisions to reduce fraud in unemployment insurance benefits by enhancing technology systems for identity verification. Notably, the bill repeals several previous legislative sections related to the workforce development program and sets an effective date of October 1, 2025, for the main provisions. The overall goal appears to be streamlining and improving workforce development support for individuals receiving healthcare assistance in Montana.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0953