MontanaHB 16769th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Generally revise election laws

Sponsored By: Julie Darling (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Elections

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Stronger tracking for absentee ballots

The law tightens how Montana tracks absentee ballots. Ballots are paper and numbered in order starting at 1. Election administrators must record ballot numbers sent, delivered, or marked in person, how many are reserved for late voters, and the names of voters who got them. At poll opening, judges mark the pollbook for absentee numbers, reserve numbers for late voters, and list only the voter tied to each ballot number. This takes effect immediately.

No posted absentee list at polls

Chief election judges no longer post a list of absentee voters at the polling place. This lowers a posting task for poll workers. It also means voters do not see that list on-site. Records remain with the election administrator under the normal retention schedule. This takes effect immediately.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Julie Darling
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Shelley Vance
Republican • Senate
Wendy McKamey
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 264 • No: 35

Senate vote • 3/17/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 31 • No: 18

Senate vote • 3/15/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 33 • No: 17

House vote • 1/30/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 100 • No: 0

House vote • 1/29/2025