The Montana Legislature's House Business and Labor Committee convened on March 28, 2025, to discuss House Bill 850, which aims to establish a professional certification for community health workers (CHWs). This bill is designed to enhance the role of CHWs, who serve as vital links between healthcare providers and the communities they serve, particularly in addressing social determinants of health.

The proposed legislation outlines several key components. It mandates the creation of a licensing framework under the Department of Labor and Industry, ensuring that CHWs meet specific training and ethical standards. This certification is intended to improve the quality of care provided by CHWs, who often assist individuals in navigating healthcare systems, managing chronic conditions, and accessing essential resources such as food and housing.

Proponents of the bill, including healthcare professionals and community leaders, emphasized the importance of formalizing the CHW role to ensure accountability and consistency across the state. Kayla Morris, a supervisor at St. Peter's Health, highlighted that the lack of regulation currently allows anyone to claim the title of CHW, which can lead to varying levels of service quality. She argued that House Bill 850 would create clear expectations for training and supervision, ultimately benefiting both patients and the healthcare system.

Mark Nay, a practicing CHW, shared personal experiences illustrating the challenges many Montanans face in accessing healthcare. He noted that CHWs play a crucial role in helping individuals understand their healthcare options and responsibilities, thereby reducing reliance on emergency services. Nay and other supporters stressed that licensure would enhance the professional recognition of CHWs, allowing them to work more effectively alongside other healthcare providers.

The bill also includes provisions for integrating CHWs into the Montana Medicaid program, offering flexibility for the Department of Public Health and Human Services to include CHW services as optional coverage. This could potentially improve access to care for Medicaid recipients while addressing the state's healthcare workforce shortages.

Several testimonies from community health workers and healthcare advocates underscored the positive impact of CHWs on public health outcomes. They shared success stories of individuals who have benefited from CHW support, illustrating the critical role these workers play in fostering healthier communities.

In conclusion, House Bill 850 represents a significant step toward formalizing the role of community health workers in Montana. By establishing a certification process, the bill aims to enhance the quality of care provided to vulnerable populations, improve health outcomes, and address the ongoing challenges within the state's healthcare system. The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the value of CHWs in bridging gaps in healthcare access and support.