The bill amends the qualifications for municipal firefighters in Montana, specifically allowing fire chiefs greater discretion in hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds. Under the revised Section 7-33-4107, applicants may now qualify as firefighters even if they have been convicted of certain misdemeanors or felonies, provided the fire chief deems it appropriate. However, individuals convicted of crimes that require registration on the sexual or violent offender registry are explicitly prohibited from qualifying. This change aims to broaden the pool of potential candidates for firefighting positions while maintaining safety standards.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the requirements for physical examinations in Section 7-33-4108, stating that the examination must be documented in writing and filed with the city or town clerk. This ensures that there is a formal record of the applicant's ability to perform the physical demands of the job. Overall, the bill seeks to modernize firefighter qualifications and enhance the hiring process while balancing public safety concerns.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_1(1): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_1(2): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_1(3): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_1(4): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_1: 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(1): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(10): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(2): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(3): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(4): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(5): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(6): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(7): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(8): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X(9): 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108
SB0362_X: 7-33-4107, 7-33-4108