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Bill Summary · LC 2785

Legislative bill overview

LC 2785 requests an interim study to examine ways to increase the effectiveness and impact of school counselors in Montana. The study would investigate current counselor roles, workload challenges, and potential policy or resource improvements. This is a procedural bill authorizing legislative research rather than implementing direct policy changes.

Why is this important

School counselors play critical roles in student academic success, mental health support, and college/career planning. Understanding barriers to their effectiveness—such as high student-to-counselor ratios, administrative burden, or resource constraints—could inform future legislation affecting student outcomes and educator working conditions. Montana lawmakers would gain evidence-based information to guide potential reforms.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Any recommendations from the study could require funding increases for additional counselors or training, raising budget questions in a fiscally constrained environment
  • Scope definition: Disagreement over whether "impact" focuses narrowly on academic metrics, or broadly includes mental health, career guidance, and equity issues
  • Implementation timeline: Uncertainty about whether study findings will lead to timely legislative action or remain shelved without follow-up commitment

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

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