The bill aims to revise laws concerning educational programs for eligible children receiving in-state inpatient treatment for serious emotional disturbances. It clarifies the tuition calculations for these children and the rulemaking authority of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. Key amendments include the addition of provisions for the calculation and distribution of funds based on different circumstances, as well as the establishment of a daily rate for educational programs that reflects actual costs, excluding reimbursable services. The bill also mandates that qualifying facilities provide educational data and regular reports on the academic progress of eligible children.

Additionally, the bill removes a provision that allowed the Superintendent of Public Instruction to distribute funds to public school districts for supporting educational programs for children with significant behavioral or physical needs. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing treatment for Montana residents and outlines the responsibilities of the Superintendent in ensuring appropriate educational opportunities are provided. The effective date for the implementation of this act is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(1): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(2): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(3): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(4): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(5): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1(6): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_1: 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(1): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(2): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(3): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(4): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(5): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(6): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(7): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X(8): 20-7-419, 20-7-435
HB0669_X: 20-7-419, 20-7-435