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Committee hears opposition to opening corrections contracts beyond Montana nonprofits

House Judiciary Committee
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Summary

The House Judiciary Committee debated House Bill 5 40, which would let Montana corporations beyond nonprofit providers bid on Department of Corrections contracts; local nonprofits, sheriffs and county officials warned the change could undermine community ties and services, while DOC proponents said the change would increase competition and flexibility.

Representative Steve Kelly (House District 9) sponsored House Bill 5 40, asking the House Judiciary Committee to broaden who can bid on certain Department of Corrections programs so that "Montana corporations," not only Montana nonprofit corporations, can compete for contracts.

Proponents including Scott Eichner, rehabilitation program chief for the Department of Corrections, said the change is intended to increase competition and flexibility as Montana''s treatment needs evolve. Eichner told the committee a forthcoming amendment would limit competition to Montana entities; he said the department's goal is to…

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