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Bill Summary · LC 1365

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 1365 establishes a licensing and regulatory framework for community health workers (CHWs) in Montana. The bill creates state oversight mechanisms to standardize qualifications, training requirements, and scope of practice for these workers who provide frontline healthcare services in underserved communities.

Why is this important

Community health workers bridge gaps in healthcare access for rural and vulnerable populations, yet currently operate without uniform state standards in Montana. Formal licensing could improve care quality and patient safety while potentially expanding job opportunities, though it may also create barriers for existing workers and affect program costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Disagreement over what medical tasks CHWs can perform independently versus requiring physician oversight could affect both worker autonomy and patient safety concerns
  • Existing worker grandfathering: Whether current unlicensed CHWs can practice under new rules without meeting new requirements, impacting workforce continuity in rural areas
  • Implementation costs: Regulatory infrastructure, training program development, and compliance expenses may burden small health organizations or clinics serving low-income populations

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

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