WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

LC 2893

Generally revise laws related to health care proxy decisionmakers

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill revising health care proxy decisionmaking laws to update surrogate authorization standards for incapacitated or unable patients.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
#health(seealso:healthcareservices;safety) #healthcareservices(seealso:health)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LC 2893

Legislative bill overview

LC 2893 is a Montana bill in early draft stages that would comprehensively revise state laws governing health care proxy decisionmakers—individuals legally authorized to make medical decisions on behalf of patients who cannot do so themselves. The bill appears to update and clarify the legal framework for these surrogate decision-making authorities, though specific substantive changes are not yet public as the draft is still in development.

Why is this important

Health care proxy laws directly affect end-of-life care decisions, treatment consent, and medical autonomy for vulnerable populations including elderly, incapacitated, and seriously ill patients. Clear, updated proxy decisionmaking laws reduce legal disputes among family members, protect patients' wishes, and provide healthcare providers with defensible guidance on accepting proxy decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of proxy authority: Whether proxies can make decisions about experimental treatments, organ donation, or withdrawal of life-sustaining care may generate disagreement between patient advocacy groups and medical providers
  • Hierarchy of decision-makers: Disputes over who qualifies as a proxy when family members disagree (spouse vs. adult children vs. parents) could affect vulnerable adults
  • Religious and ethical considerations: Conflicts may arise between patients' expressed values and proxy decision-making standards, particularly regarding end-of-life care and medical refusal

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

Sign in to ask a question.