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Bill > SB105


MT SB105

Generally revise election laws related to electioneering at polling locations


summary

Introduced
01/07/2025
In Committee
02/27/2025
Crossed Over
02/26/2025
Passed
05/01/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/05/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT PROHIBITING ELECTIONEERING AT ALL POLLING LOCATIONS FOR ALL ELECTIONS FROM THE TIME ABSENTEE BALLOTS ARE AVAILABLE UNTIL ALL VOTING IS COMPLETED; AMING SECTION 13-35-211, MCA; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

AI Summary

This bill expands restrictions on electioneering (political campaigning) and voter interaction at polling locations. The legislation broadens the existing law to prohibit electioneering at any location where voters can obtain or cast ballots, not just traditional polling places, and extends these restrictions from the time absentee ballots become available until all voting is completed. Specifically, the bill prohibits candidates, their family members, and campaign workers from distributing any items of value (such as food, drink, alcohol, or tobacco) within 100 feet of ballot locations during voting hours. It also bans wearing, displaying, or distributing campaign badges, buttons, or insignia at these locations, and prevents individuals from soliciting information from voters about their voting intentions before or after they cast their ballot. The bill requires the secretary of state to notify all federally recognized tribal governments in Montana about the law and will become effective on July 1, 2025. These changes aim to create a more neutral voting environment and prevent potential voter influence near ballot locations.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Chapter Number Assigned (on 05/05/2025)

bill text


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