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Bill

LC 903

Revise campaign finance law regarding foreign nationals and ballot issues

2025 Regular Session

Proposed Montana law restricting foreign nationals' campaign spending on ballot measures; died in legislative drafting process without final passage.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
#ballotissues(seealso:elections) #elections(seealso:ballotissues)
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Bill Summary · LC 903

Legislative bill overview

LC 903 proposes revisions to Montana's campaign finance laws specifically addressing foreign nationals' involvement in ballot issue campaigns. The bill died in the legislative process in May 2025 without advancing to a full floor vote. The specific provisions are not publicly detailed in available records, though the title indicates restrictions or regulations on foreign participation in ballot measure funding.

Why is this important

Campaign finance laws directly affect the transparency and integrity of elections. Foreign nationals' ability to fund ballot issue campaigns raises sovereignty and influence concerns, as outside entities could theoretically shape state policy decisions. Montana voters deserve to know whether funding for ballot initiatives comes from domestic or international sources.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional free speech questions: Courts have repeatedly grappled with whether restricting campaign spending constitutes protected political speech, making enforcement and legal defensibility uncertain
  • Defining "foreign nationals": The bill's scope depends heavily on how it defines foreign involvement—whether it covers foreign-controlled corporations, foreign individuals, or both, and how strictly
  • Ballot measure vs. candidate distinction: Different legal frameworks apply to ballot issue campaigns versus candidate elections, creating complexity in implementation and potential loopholes

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

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