MontanaSB 27669th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)Senate

Generally revise voter identification laws

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Stricter ID rules for in-person voting

To vote in person, you must show a current, valid, and readable photo ID with your name. Accepted IDs include a Montana driver’s license, Montana ID card, military ID, tribal photo ID, U.S. passport, Montana concealed carry permit, or a student photo ID from a Montana university or a school in the NAIA. Or show any photo ID with your name plus a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document with your name and current address.

ID required with your mail ballot

If you vote by mail, include allowed ID inside the outer signature envelope. You can list your Montana driver’s license number, Montana ID card number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. You can instead include a readable copy of a military ID, tribal photo ID, U.S. passport, Montana concealed carry permit, or qualifying student photo ID. Or include any photo ID plus a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, voter registration confirmation, government check, or other government document with your name and current address. If you do not include acceptable ID, your ballot is treated as a provisional ballot.

Tighter rules and deadlines for provisional ballots

The law keeps provisional voting but removes the "reasonable impediment" form. If you cast a provisional ballot, you have until 5 p.m. the day after the election to provide ID or eligibility proof. You may deliver it in person, by fax, by electronic means, or by mail postmarked no later than the next day. If you lacked ID, officials compare your affirmation signature to your registration signature. If they do not match and you or your agent do not give valid ID by 5 p.m. the next day, your ballot is rejected. Your ballot is counted if officials verify you by these deadlines, including items postmarked by 5 p.m. the next day and received and verified by 3 p.m. on the sixth day. Ballots not resolved by election day are not counted until after 3 p.m. on the sixth day. If your ballot was challenged for unsound mind or a felony sentence, it is counted unless the challenger files court papers by 5 p.m. the next day. Administrators must tell you why your ballot was or was not counted.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Mike Cuffe
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Eric Tilleman
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 204 • No: 94

House vote • 4/11/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 57 • No: 42

House vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 58 • No: 42

Senate vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 46 • No: 4

Senate vote • 3/5/2025