MT HB621

Police departments, sheriff's offices, fire departments, and emergency medical service providers may establish peer support programs for first responders

Programs must have written policies covering peer supporter qualifications, certification requirements, HIPAA compliance, and definitions distinguishing peer support sessions from casual conversations

Peer support sessions are confidential and qualified peer supporters are prohibited from testifying about session content in both individual and group settings

Confidentiality exceptions apply when an employee has committed or plans to commit a crime, indicates intent to harm themselves or others, or when licensing boards request information or mandatory reporting requirements apply

Employees are protected from being forced to use peer supporters who supervise them and from harassment or discrimination for seeking peer support services