Bill > HB850

This bill establishes a licensing and regulatory framework for community health workers (CHWs) in Montana, creating standards to ensure their ethical, qualified, and professional practice. The bill defines a licensed community health worker as a frontline public health worker who is trusted by the community and provides services like outreach, maternity support, service navigation, coaching, cultural mediation, and informal counseling. To become licensed, an individual must be at least 18 years old, complete a community health worker training program (or an equivalent program), and successfully complete supervised experience hours. The Department of Labor and Industry will be responsible for creating rules, reviewing training curricula, and issuing licenses. The bill allows some exceptions to licensing requirements for professionals already practicing in related fields and provides flexibility for individuals who can demonstrate sufficient training or experience. The legislation also amends existing state statutes to incorporate community health workers into the state's professional licensing definitions, potentially paving the way for future reimbursement and recognition of these workers within the healthcare system. By establishing these standards, the bill aims to professionalize and validate the important work of community health workers in supporting public health and providing critical services to communities.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1365