Bill > HB818

This bill seeks to prohibit foreign nationals from interfering in Montana's statewide ballot measures by restricting their ability to make contributions, expenditures, or independent expenditures related to ballot issues. The legislation expands the definition of "foreign national" to include U.S. entities that are majority-owned by foreign nationals, with some exceptions for entities that pay U.S. taxes and have U.S. decision-makers. Political committees and treasurers will be required to obtain affirmations from donors that they are not foreign nationals and have not received funds from prohibited sources. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations, allowing the Commissioner of Political Practices or county attorneys to bring actions against individuals or entities found to be in violation, with potential fines up to $500 or three times the amount of the unlawful contribution or expenditure. For knowingly aiding or facilitating a violation, a person could face misdemeanor charges. The legislation aims to prevent outside financial influence in Montana's ballot measure process by creating new reporting requirements, defining prohibited actions, and establishing clear enforcement mechanisms to protect the integrity of state-level direct democracy.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3896