Bill > HB867

This bill establishes and expands medical assistance programs for licensed professionals, specifically for chiropractors and veterinarians, designed to help professionals struggling with substance abuse, mental illness, or chronic physical conditions. The bill requires licensing boards to create medical assistance programs that provide support and treatment options, with a focus on rehabilitation and monitoring. The legislation mandates that licensees who are required or volunteer to participate in these programs must be allowed to enroll in qualified treatment programs within the state, and only be required to seek treatment outside the state if no qualified program exists locally. The bill also introduces provisions for funding these programs by allowing boards to adjust renewal fees to cover program costs. Additionally, the bill modifies existing statutes to ensure confidentiality of program records, limit their use in legal proceedings, and require periodic audits of these medical assistance programs. The changes aim to provide supportive, non-discriminatory pathways for licensed professionals to address health challenges while maintaining their professional standing, with an emphasis on treatment and rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2420