MT SB525

School districts and public charter schools may adopt policies to authorize paid or volunteer school chaplains to provide supports, services, and programs to students

School chaplains must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, pass background checks required for noninstructional employees, and be certified by the superintendent of public instruction

Written parental consent is required before any student can participate in or receive services from a school chaplain

Schools must publish a list of school chaplains and their religious affiliations on the district or charter school website

School districts may engage a school chaplain instead of a school counselor to perform counselor duties; effective date is July 1, 2025