Bill
LC 2427
Summary of Legislative Bill LC 2427: Revise Election Laws Bill OverviewThis draft bill, which ultimately died in the legislative process, aimed to make several significant changes
This draft bill, which ultimately died in the legislative process, aimed to make several significant changes to Montana's election laws. The bill's primary purpose was to increase voting requirements and restrictions, as well as modify certain electoral procedures.
The main components of the proposed legislation included:
Voter ID Requirements: The bill sought to mandate that all voters present a valid, government-issued photo ID in order to cast a ballot. This would have expanded existing voter ID laws in the state.
Limits on Mail-In Voting: The legislation proposed restricting the use of mail-in/absentee ballots, including shortening the deadline for requesting such ballots and prohibiting the automatic mailing of ballots to all registered voters.
Ballot Collection Restrictions: The bill aimed to impose new limits on the collection and return of mail-in ballots by third parties, potentially making it more difficult for some voters to submit their completed ballots.
Voting Machine Audits: The legislation called for enhanced post-election audits of voting machines and election results, potentially adding new administrative requirements and procedures.
If enacted, this bill would have had widespread impacts on Montana's electoral process and the ability of citizens to vote. The new voter ID, mail-in voting, and ballot collection rules could have created additional barriers to participation, particularly for elderly, disabled, low-income, and minority voters.
The proposed auditing requirements may have added costs and logistical challenges for state and local election officials. Additionally, the overall effect of the bill's provisions could have been to make it more difficult for Montanans to exercise their right to vote.
This bill was introduced in the Montana Legislature in December 2024 but ultimately did not advance past the initial draft stage. As a "draft" piece of legislation, it never received a formal bill number or proceeded through the typical legislative process of committee hearings, floor votes, and potential gubernatorial action.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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