The House Human Services Committee of the Montana Legislature convened on March 1, 2025, to discuss several key pieces of legislation, including House Bill 694, which aims to revise child abuse and neglect laws. The committee voted to pass the bill, which includes a provision that discourages placing children outside the United States, although an amendment was made to exempt children involved in the Indian Child Welfare Act.

During the discussion, some committee members expressed concerns about the potential negative implications of the bill. Representative Zephyr voiced strong opposition, arguing that the bill could infringe on the rights of parents who may be living abroad for various reasons, including employment. Other members echoed similar worries, particularly regarding military families stationed overseas. Despite these concerns, the bill passed with a vote of 12 in favor and 9 against.

The committee also reviewed House Bill 765, which seeks to reestablish a public guardianship grant program. This bill was amended to include a termination date for the program and passed with a narrow vote of 11 to 10.

Additionally, House Bill 796, which revises laws related to compulsory health care sharing, and House Bill 807, which prohibits the requirement of vaccines under emergency authorization, were both passed out of committee. House Bill 825, concerning health care proxy decision-makers, also received approval with a significant majority of 21 votes in favor.

The meeting concluded with plans for a follow-up session on Monday to address further amendments and additional bills. The chair acknowledged the committee's efforts in managing the legislative schedule and preparing for upcoming discussions.