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Bill Summary · SB 378

Summary of SB 378: Create a Tribal Relations Management Team at DPHHS

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SB 378
Title: Create a Tribal Relations Management Team at DPHHS
Status: Died in Process
Introduced: October 08, 2024
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Health, Health Care Services, Indians, Mental Illness or Incapacity

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of SB 378 was to establish a dedicated Tribal Relations Management Team within the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). This team was intended to enhance collaboration and communication between the state and tribal governments, particularly in the areas of health care services and mental health support for Indigenous populations.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the bill is not provided, the following key provisions can be inferred based on the bill's intent:

  • Creation of a Management Team: The bill proposed the formation of a team focused on managing and improving relations with tribal entities.
  • Enhanced Communication: The team would facilitate better communication between DPHHS and tribal governments to address health care needs more effectively.
  • Focus on Mental Health Services: The bill aimed to address mental health and incapacity issues within tribal communities, ensuring that these populations receive appropriate care and resources.

Impact

The establishment of the Tribal Relations Management Team would have had several potential impacts:

  • Tribal Communities: Indigenous populations in the state would benefit from improved access to health care services tailored to their unique needs.
  • State Agencies: DPHHS would have a structured approach to engage with tribal governments, potentially leading to more effective health policies and programs.
  • Mental Health Services: The bill aimed to enhance mental health support for tribal members, addressing a critical area of concern in many Indigenous communities.

Legislative Timeline

  • October 08, 2024: Bill introduced.
  • February 20, 2025: First reading and referral to the Public Health, Welfare and Safety Committee.
  • February 25, 2025: Hearing held in committee.
  • February 26, 2025: Fiscal note received and printed.
  • February 27, 2025: Bill tabled in committee.
  • March 12, 2025: Missed deadline for general bill transmittal.
  • May 23, 2025: Bill died in process.

Conclusion

SB 378 aimed to create a framework for better health care service delivery to tribal communities in Montana through the establishment of a Tribal Relations Management Team at DPHHS. Despite its potential benefits, the bill ultimately did not progress through the legislative process and was marked as having died in process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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