Bill

Bill > SB57


MT SB57

Revise county canvassing processes


summary

Introduced
12/16/2024
In Committee
02/11/2025
Crossed Over
02/10/2025
Passed
05/08/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/13/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT REVISING COUNTY CANVASSING PROCESSES; REQUIRING A BOARD OF COUNTY CANVASSERS TO COMPARE THE NUMBER OF VOTES CAST TO THE NUMBER OF ELECTORS AND THE NUMBER OF PERSONS WHO VOTED DURING CANVASS; REQUIRING A BOARD OF COUNTY CANVASSERS TO INVESTIGATE DISCREPANCIES OR ERRORS IN VOTE COUNTS; PROVIDING THAT A BOARD OF COUNTY CANVASSERS MAY REQUIRE A RECOUNT OF VOTES IN AN INVESTIGATION OF DISCREPANCIES OR ERRORS; AMING SECTIONS 13-15-403 AND 13-16-201, MCA; AND PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE.”

AI Summary

This bill revises county canvassing processes by adding new requirements for boards of county canvassers during election vote counting. Specifically, the bill mandates that county canvassing boards must compare the number of votes cast with the number of registered electors and the number of people who actually voted during the canvass. If the board discovers any discrepancies or errors in vote counts that could potentially affect the election's outcome, they are now required to immediately investigate these issues and resolve them within two days. The bill provides the canvassing board with the authority to require a recount of votes in a specific race, ballot issue, or precinct as part of their investigation process. Additionally, the legislation modifies existing statutes to clarify the conditions under which a recount can be conducted, including situations where an election is decided by a very narrow margin (not exceeding 1/4 of 1% of total votes cast or 10 votes). The bill becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval, giving county election officials new tools and responsibilities to ensure vote count accuracy and transparency.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Chapter Number Assigned (on 05/13/2025)

bill text


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