The bill amends Section 37-1-101 of the Montana Code Annotated to grant the Department of Labor and Industry the authority to establish procedural rules for contested administrative cases. This includes the insertion of new language that mandates the department to adopt uniform rules for all boards and department programs, specifically to "establish procedures for contested cases" and to ensure compliance with public notice requirements. The rules may allow for minimal public posting, such as only the licensee's name and the fact that a hearing is being held, prior to decisions that could lead to the suspension or revocation of a license.

Additionally, the bill outlines various duties of the department, including the standardization of policies and procedures, the management of official records, and the investigation of complaints regarding unethical conduct. It emphasizes the importance of timely processing of routine and non-routine license applications, as well as the need for the department to monitor board cash balances and adjust fees accordingly. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the licensing process within the Department of Labor and Industry.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 37-1-101
HB0261_1(1): 37-1-101
HB0261_1(2): 37-1-101
HB0261_1(3): 37-1-101
HB0261_1(4): 37-1-101
HB0261_1(5): 37-1-101
HB0261_1(6): 37-1-101
HB0261_1: 37-1-101
HB0261_X(1): 37-1-101
HB0261_X(2): 37-1-101
HB0261_X(3): 37-1-101
HB0261_X(4): 37-1-101
HB0261_X(5): 37-1-101
HB0261_X: 37-1-101