Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise laws concerning community homes for individuals with developmental disabilities in Montana. The bill mandates that community homes establish written policies and procedures to ensure the health and safety of residents and the surrounding community. It introduces a public comment period of at least 28 days for license applications, allowing local landowners to provide input on proposed policies and procedures. Additionally, the bill outlines a complaint process within the Department of Public Health and Human Services for addressing alleged violations of these policies, including a procedure for informal investigations and potential mediation.

The bill amends Section 53-20-305 of the Montana Code Annotated, incorporating new requirements for the licensing and operation of community homes. It establishes a framework for handling complaints, including timelines for investigations and hearings, and specifies that if a violation is found, the department can order corrective actions or even revoke a community home's license. The legislation also allows for judicial review of decisions made by the department and provides for the recovery of attorney fees for prevailing parties in related court actions. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance oversight and accountability for community homes, ensuring they operate in a manner that prioritizes the well-being of residents and the community.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 53-20-305
SB0125_1(1): 53-20-305
SB0125_1(2): 53-20-305
SB0125_1(3): 53-20-305
SB0125_1(4): 53-20-305
SB0125_1(5): 53-20-305
SB0125_1(6): 53-20-305
SB0125_1: 53-20-305