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LC 1219

Revise laws that may diminish the dignity of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill to remove state laws containing language or provisions that diminish dignity of deaf and hard of hearing individuals; currently in legislative drafting phase.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 1219

Legislative bill overview

LC 1219 proposes revisions to Montana state laws to remove or modify provisions that may diminish the dignity of deaf or hard of hearing individuals. The bill is still in the legislative drafting stage and has not yet been formally introduced as a complete measure. The specific statutory changes have not been publicly detailed, as the draft is undergoing final review and assembly.

Why is this important

Dignity-based protections in law signal recognition of equal standing for people with disabilities in civic and social life. Montana law may contain outdated, paternalistic, or stigmatizing language regarding deaf and hard of hearing individuals—such as restrictions on professional licenses, presumptions of incapacity, or dehumanizing terminology—that this bill would address. Removing such provisions can improve both legal standing and social respect for this community.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: Without the final draft text, it's unclear which specific statutes will be revised, making it difficult to assess whether changes are narrowly tailored or broadly expansive
  • Definition and interpretation: Disagreement over what constitutes "diminishing dignity" may arise, with some stakeholders viewing certain restrictions as protective while others see them as paternalistic
  • Implementation costs: Any accommodations or administrative changes required by revised statutes could trigger fiscal concerns from state agencies or political debate over resource allocation

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

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