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Bill

LC 2212

Revise Montana election laws to prohibit out of state funding for constitutional initiatives

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would ban out-of-state funding for constitutional ballot initiatives, restricting who can financially support direct democracy measures.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
#elections(seealso:ballotissues)
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Bill Summary · LC 2212

Legislative bill overview

LC 2212 would amend Montana election law to prohibit or restrict funding from out-of-state sources for ballot initiatives that propose changes to the Montana Constitution. The bill died in the legislative process in May 2025 without advancing to a full floor vote or committee hearing.

Why is this important

Constitutional initiatives represent direct democracy mechanisms that shape fundamental state governance, and funding restrictions could affect the practical ability of advocacy groups to qualify measures for the ballot. This reflects broader national debates over whether out-of-state money in elections represents legitimate political participation or undue external influence on local decision-making.

Potential points of contention

  • Free speech concerns: Opponents may argue that restricting funding sources violates First Amendment protections, particularly after court rulings broadly protecting campaign spending as speech
  • Practical definition challenges: The bill would need clear definitions of what constitutes "out-of-state funding" (individual donors, organizations, membership contributions), which courts have found difficult to enforce consistently
  • Competitive disadvantage: Restrictions might benefit well-funded in-state interests while limiting grassroots movements that rely on national nonprofit networks for financial and organizational support

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

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