Revise laws that prohibit contracts that restrict practice of health care providers

This bill amends Montana law to protect mental health and behavioral health professionals from restrictive employment contracts. It directly affects psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, counselors, nurses, physician assistants, and other licensed behavioral health providers by prohibiting their employers from including non-compete clauses that limit their ability to treat current patients or work in their field after leaving a job. The law specifically bans contracts from restricting these providers from practicing in any geographic area or maintaining relationships with patients they currently serve, while excluding contracts related to buying or selling a medical practice. The changes apply immediately upon passage and cover contracts made or renewed after the effective date.