The Senate Finance and Claims Committee of the Montana Legislature convened on March 21, 2025, to discuss several significant legislative proposals, including a bill aimed at enabling doulas to practice in the state and the establishment of a claims court.

One of the primary discussions centered around Senate Bill 319, which seeks to regulate the practice of doulas. Senators expressed mixed opinions on the bill, with some raising concerns about its implications. Senator Lehi voiced skepticism, referencing troubling information about "death doulas," which he claimed facilitate suicide. He indicated that this raised questions about the bill's scope and expressed his intention to vote against it. In contrast, Senator Kirk Carpenter defended the bill, emphasizing its potential to allow doulas to practice legally and the importance of further discussion in the House. He noted that the bill would not incur additional costs, as it would need to be included in House Bill 2 for Medicaid coverage.

The committee also voted on Senate Bill 385, which aims to establish a claims court. Senator McGilvray highlighted cost-saving measures incorporated into the bill, including the elimination of pretrial sentencing reports and adjustments to judicial resources, which collectively saved over $2 million. The committee ultimately passed Senate Bill 319 with a vote of 12 in favor and 10 against, while discussions on Senate Bill 385 continued.

The outcomes of these discussions reflect ongoing efforts within the Montana Legislature to address healthcare practices and judicial efficiency, with further deliberations expected as the bills progress through the legislative process.