This bill aims to revise and streamline laws related to professional and occupational licensing in Montana. It amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically sections 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, and 37-54-201, while also repealing sections 37-1-411 and 37-1-412. Key changes include clarifying the disciplinary authority of licensing boards, specifying that disciplinary actions must be conducted as contested case hearings, and updating the language regarding unlawful practices in various professions, such as optometry and physical therapy.

Notably, the bill removes redundant provisions and amends conflicting language to enhance clarity and enforceability. For instance, it changes the requirement for disciplinary actions from "shall" to "must," indicating a stronger obligation. Additionally, it introduces new language to prevent unlicensed individuals from misrepresenting themselves as licensed professionals in various fields, thereby strengthening the enforcement of licensing regulations. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the regulatory framework governing professional licensing in Montana.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(1): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(2): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(3): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(4): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(5): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(6): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(7): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1(8): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_1: 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_X: 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201