The bill revises the process for conducting the decennial veterans' long-term care needs study in Montana by transferring primary responsibility from the Department of Public Health and Human Services to the Montana Veterans' Affairs Division. It mandates the involvement of various stakeholders, including veterans' outreach organizations, legislators, and caregivers, in the study's execution. The bill also requires the preparation of a study plan and budget estimate prior to the study's initiation, as well as regular updates to the state administration and veterans' affairs interim committee during the study.

Key amendments include the addition of a personal survey component that incorporates online, paper, and focus group options, and the establishment of an advisory committee to assist with the survey. The bill also revises reporting requirements, ensuring that the Montana Veterans' Affairs Division presents a comprehensive report to the state administration and veterans' affairs interim committee after the study's completion, which will include results, legislative recommendations, and suggestions for future studies.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 10-2-901, 10-2-902, 10-2-903