About this information:
This information was prepared by the Legal Advocacy division of the American Diabetes Association® (ADA), a national leader in diabetes information and advocacy. This information covers state rules on diabetes care in Montana schools, and may not include all the relevant rules and important details. While ADA strives to provide current information, laws and resources can frequently change. This information is not legal advice and professional legal advice should be sought as needed.
1. Does Montana allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer insulin?
Yes. Montana law does not prohibit delegation of insulin administration and insulin is not included in the list tasks that may not be delegated. Mont. Admin. R. 24.159.1625.
2. Does Montana allow school staff members who are not health care professionals to administer glucagon?
Yes. Montana law specifically allows parent-designated adults to administer glucagon. These school employees should also be trained in how to recognize hypoglycemia:
“[A] A parent-designated adult may administer glucagon to a diabetic student in an emergency situation. […] A parent-designated adult must be trained in recognizing hypoglycemia and the proper method of administering glucagon. Training must be provided by a health care professional, […] or a recognized expert in diabetic care selected by the parent […] Written documentation of the training received by the parent-designated adult must be filed with the school district.” Mont. Code Anno., § 20-5-412.
3. Does Montana allow students to self-manage diabetes at school?
The law is unclear. There is no specific Montana rule about blood glucose testing or diabetes self-management.
Even if state law is not clear, federal laws may allow qualified students to self-manage diabetes care. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child.
4. Does Montana allow students to carry diabetes supplies such as needles, insulin, and blood glucose testing devices?
The law is not clear. There is no specific Montana rule about diabetes supplies.
Even if state law is not clear, federal laws may allow qualified students to self-manage diabetes care. This may be necessary so that children with diabetes can access education just like any other child.
5. Does Montana allow students with diabetes to carry cellphones or smart devices for medical purposes?
Montana currently does not have any statewide cellphone restrictions or bans for schools. However, individual schools or districts may create their own policies. If your child is having challenges with cell phone access at school, please contact us at 1-800-DIABETES or email AskADA@diabetes.org. Additional resources can be found on our Safe at School homepage.
Resources:
For more information, see the following helpful resources:
Additional Safe at School resources are available at diabetes.org/safeatschool. To receive information and guidance about a school diabetes care issue, contact 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or AskADA@diabetes.org
