House Bill No. introduced by E. Buttrey aims to revise laws regarding student employment for high school credit in both public and nonpublic schools. The bill allows 11th and 12th grade students to earn elective credit toward graduation through paid or voluntary employment at congregate-care and child-care facilities. Specifically, students can earn one elective credit for every 250 hours worked, with a maximum of two credits. Schools are required to develop a written application process for students seeking this credit, which must include details about the student, the facility, and the work performed. Additionally, schools can impose conditions and requirements on the work performed to qualify for credit.
The bill also includes provisions for the codification of these new regulations into Title 20, chapter 7, part 3 of the Montana Code, and establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025, for the new law. This legislation aims to provide students with practical work experience while simultaneously contributing to their educational requirements for graduation.