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Bill would grant legislators 'access' to Montana State Hospital; department warns of patient-privacy, CMS risks
Summary
Representative Donovan Hawk introduced House Bill 403 to require legislative access to Montana State Hospital so lawmakers can oversee care and address constituent concerns, including alleged abuse and discharge problems.
Representative Donovan Hawk, R-Butte-Silver Bow, opened the hearing on House Bill 403 by describing the bill as a one-page measure to allow state legislators access to Montana State Hospital so they can oversee whether legislative policy is implemented, while accounting for safety and privacy concerns.
Proponents, including tribal representatives and advocacy groups, told the committee they support statutory access because they say legislators have been unable to schedule timely visits in the past and because oversight can help address alleged incidents of abuse, service shortfalls and discharge planning that can contribute to homelessness.
Patrick Yawake (representing Blackfeet Tribe, Fort Belknap Indian Community and Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy) said legislative access would let lawmakers act as advocates and “first responders” when constituents in state hospitals face health-care…
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