March 31, 2017
By Missoula Current Gov. Steve Bullock on Friday signed new legislation aimed at decreasing readmissions to the hospital and improving health outcomes, while saving the state money. The Montana Caregiver Act, sponsored by Rep. Geraldine Custer, R-Forsyth, gives family caregivers the tools they need to help their loved ones go into the hospital, and as they transition … [Read more...] about Bullock signs Montana Caregiver Act into law
March 13, 2017
By Michael Siebert/UM Legislative News Service HELENA - The main state budget bill at the Montana Legislature passed first reading last week with some surprises, like the restoration of $11.5 million in higher education funding and some expected cuts. But one area has consistently struggled to find funding throughout the entirety of the 65th Montana Legislative session — … [Read more...] about Special education struggles to find funding in 65th Legislature
March 12, 2017
By Michael Siebert/UM Legislative News Service After uncertainty about how the upcoming special congressional election would change the makeup of the Montana Legislature, the nomination of Democrat Rob Quist and Republican Greg Gianforte means it’s back to business as usual at the state Capitol. Multiple legislators had announced their intention to run for the vacant … [Read more...] about Legislature Week 10: Child abuse, bed tax, health care, landlords
March 11, 2017
By Freddy Monares/UM Legislative News Service HELENA - Retirement facility employees in Montana could hypothetically record videos and photos of patients and post them to social media sites under current state law. House Bill 244 would change that, making it a felony to record seniors, or people with developmental disabilities, in uncompromising situations in any … [Read more...] about House Bill 244 makes social media posts shaming seniors a crime
March 11, 2017
By Cole Grant/UM Legislative News Service HELENA - The Montana House Appropriations Committee is nearly done ironing out amendments to House Bill 2, or the main budget bill. Rep. Marilyn Ryan, D-Missoula, proposed one of those amendments Friday. That amendment to the Department of Health and Human Services budget would have increased wages for those who work directly with … [Read more...] about House committee says ‘no’ to pay hike for work with seniors
