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 amendments 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 conflicts within existing laws, such as the previous language regarding the board's authority to enjoin unlawful practices, which has been streamlined. Additionally, it introduces new language that emphasizes the necessity of public notice for rules adopted by licensing boards and clarifies the conditions under which individuals may represent themselves as licensed professionals. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the regulatory framework governing professional licensing while ensuring compliance and protecting public interests.

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(1): 37-1-136, 37-10-301, 37-11-301, 37-26-401, 37-54-201
HB0296_X(2): 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