Assessment, Course, and Treatment Program
Montana law requires those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to complete the Assessment, Course and Treatment (ACT) phases.
The purpose of ACT is to reinforce the consequences of DUI conviction and interrupt the cycle of driving impaired.
Components
ACT has three components:
- 1. Assessment
- an evaluation to determine if the offender is chemically dependent must be performed by a licensed addiction counselor (LAC) at a state-approved program. If an offender disagrees with the results of their assessment, they may seek—at their expense—a second opinion from an independent counselor licensed to practice in Montana. The offender must then seek the opinion of the court as to which recommendation is the most appropriate treatment course to follow.
- 2. Course
- 12 hours of education regarding Montana law; consequences for driving impaired; and how alcohol/drugs affect a person's physiology, driving, and choices. The course, PRIME for Life, must be provided by a LAC at a state-approved program. PRIME For Life® is an evidence-based program.
- 3. Treatment
- the level of treatment recommended will depend on the level of chemical dependency found in the assessment. Recommendations will vary from out-patient to residential in-patient treatment. An offender may seek the appropriate level of treatment from any competent provider licensed to practice in Montana.
Requirements & Training
Before a licensed addiction counselor (LAC) may teach the ACT course at a state-approved program, s/he must complete ACT training. Information about the upcoming training sessions will be posted when they are scheduled.
The Law
- 61-8-714. Penalty for driving under influence of alcohol or drugs -- first through third offense.
- 61-8-732. Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs -- driving with excessive alcohol concentration -- assessment, education, and treatment required.
- 61-8-410. Operation of vehicle by person under 21 years of age with alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more.
Publications
Contacts
, Program Officer, DPHHS
406-444-7926
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