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Bill

LC 1503

Require nonpartisan election of clerk of supreme court

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill proposing nonpartisan election of Supreme Court clerk to reduce partisan political influence on judicial administration failed to advance from draft status.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 1503

Legislative bill overview

LC 1503 would change how Montana selects its Supreme Court clerk from the current method to a nonpartisan election process. The bill seeks to remove partisan political considerations from what is traditionally an administrative court position. The measure did not advance beyond the draft stage in the 2025 legislative session.

Why is this important

The Supreme Court clerk is a significant administrative role responsible for managing court records, schedules, and operations. How this position is filled can affect public perception of judicial independence and impartiality. Montana's choice between partisan and nonpartisan selection reflects broader debates about insulating courts from political influence.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "nonpartisan": Unclear whether candidates could still have party affiliations or campaign support, or if the election would be entirely stripped of party labels
  • Current selection method: The bill's impact depends on what the existing process is; if already nonpartisan, the change may be minimal or clarifying; if partisan, this represents a significant shift in judicial administration
  • Voter familiarity and participation: Nonpartisan elections for administrative positions historically see lower voter turnout and awareness compared to partisan races

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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