BEFORE THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY

                                                       STATE OF MONTANA

 

In the matter of the amendment of ARM 24.29.221 pertaining to use of signatures when documents are being electronically transmitted

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NOTICE OF AMENDMENT

 

            TO: All Concerned Persons

 

            1. On January 15, 2021, the Department of Labor and Industry (department) published MAR Notice No. 24-29-370 pertaining to the public hearing on the proposed amendment of the above-stated rule at page 11 of the 2021 Montana Administrative Register, Issue Number 1.

 

            2. The department held a public hearing in Helena on February 17, 2021, over the Zoom videoconference and telephonic platform at which members of the public commented. Written comments were received during the public comment period.

 

            3. The department has thoroughly considered the comments made. A summary of the comments and the department's responses are as follows:

 

COMMENT 1: A commenter noted that the department was slow to adopt electronic signatures, but that this proposal is supported and will help workers' compensation come into the 21st century.

 

RESPONSE 1: The department acknowledges the comment and thanks the commenter for the support.

 

COMMENT 2:  A commenter noted that electronic signatures were seamless and could help move agreements forward more quickly.

 

RESPONSE 2:  The department acknowledges the comment and thanks the commenter for the support.

 

            4. The department has amended ARM 24.29.221 as proposed.

 

 

/s/ QUINLAN L. O'CONNOR Quinlan L. O'Connor Alternate Rule Reviewer	/s/ LAURIE ESAU Laurie Esau, Commissioner DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY

 

 

            Certified to the Secretary of State March 2, 2021.