MontanaHB 24669th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Provide for standardization of substantial equivalency determinations in professional licensing

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 1 mixed.

Boards lose some reciprocity powers

The law removes board power to endorse other states’ licensing exams and to set special rules for out‑of‑state and foreign accountants. This narrows how boards can write licensing paths. Out‑of‑state applicants in the affected fields have fewer administrative routes to a Montana license.

No reciprocity for elevator mechanics

An out‑of‑state elevator mechanic license alone is no longer enough to get a Montana license without an exam. The Department cannot issue a Montana license solely on another state’s license. Applicants must qualify under Montana’s examination and licensing rules.

Old reciprocity and verification rules repealed

The law repeals two statutes that allowed licensure by reciprocity and license verification (37‑39‑203 and 37‑65‑310). Those specific paths are gone. Out‑of‑state applicants must now use the substantial equivalency and endorsement process.

Unified rules for out-of-state licenses

The law sets one clear test for “substantial equivalency.” Boards decide for board-run professions; the Department decides for program-run ones. They compare your education, exam, and experience to Montana’s, no matter the order you did them. To get licensed by endorsement, you must hold an active, good‑standing license from a place with standards equal to Montana’s at the time you apply. If your state’s rules fall short, the board or Department checks whether your real training and work make up the gap. Reciprocity deals cannot grant a Montana license unless the standards are at least substantially equivalent. These rules do not cover schools or facilities.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Ed Buttrey
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Bruce "Butch" Gillespie
Republican • Senate
Steve Fitzpatrick
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 299 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/18/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 49 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/17/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 50 • No: 0

House vote • 2/4/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 100 • No: 0

House vote • 2/3/2025