1. (1) The behavior support plan is a formal written plan to address needs identified in a person’s plan of care and must be developed for all persons engaging in challenging behavior. The behavior support plan must be based on a behavior assessment as described in ARM 37.34.1411.

2. (2) Behavior support plans:

   1. (a) use the least restrictive intervention possible;
   2. (b) are evaluated through timely review of specific data on the progress and effectiveness of the procedure;
   3. (c) provide a clear and measurable procedure used to alter the challenging behavior;
   4. (d) include target behaviors;
   5. (e) include a description of any restrictions necessary to protect the health and safety of the person, describe why the restrictions are necessary, and list the criteria for removing them;
   6. (f) include reactive strategies to ensure the safety of the person and others; and
   7. (g) are included in the person's plan of care.
3. (3) A behavior support plan must not include the use of restrictions or acts prohibited in ARM 37.34.1418; procedures which are aversive, abusive or demeaning; or procedures that cause pain or discomfort, except as provided for in the emergency procedures allowed for in ARM 37.34.1420.

4. (4) Use of the person's behavior support plan requires prior written consent from the following for approval:

   1. (a) the person;
   2. (b) the person's parent(s) if the person is under 18 years of age; or
   3. (c) the person’s guardian, if one has been appointed by the court.
5. (5) The person's planning team and the person's providers are responsible for the implementation of the person's behavior support plan.
6. (6) A behavior support plan must include appropriate measures for training and monitoring staff performance throughout the implementation of the behavior support plan.

Authorizing statute(s): 53-6-402, 53-20-204, MCA

Implementing statute(s): 53-6-402, 53-20-203, MCA

History: NEW, 2012 MAR p. 2617, Eff. 12/21/12; AMD, 2025 MAR, Notice No. 2025-278, Eff. 10/11/25.