The bill amends sections 13-12-202 and 13-13-116 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to enhance the uniformity and clarity of ballot forms used in elections. It mandates that the Secretary of State adopt statewide uniform rules for ballot forms, which must include provisions for correcting ballots, accommodating write-in candidates, and ensuring that all candidate names are displayed in the same font size and style. A significant insertion in this section is the requirement for the printed words "official ballot" to be placed in accordance with section 13-13-116. Additionally, the bill specifies that when stubs are detached, it should be impossible to distinguish between ballots for the same office or issue.

In section 13-13-116, the bill removes the requirement for ballots to be individually stamped and instead mandates that the words "official ballot" be printed directly on the ballot, ensuring that no part of the mark appears on the stub. This change aims to streamline the process of ballot distribution by election judges, who must provide each elector with one of each type of ballot for which they are eligible. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_1(1): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_1(2): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_1(3): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_1(4): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_1: 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_X(1): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_X(2): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_X(3): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_X(4): 13-12-202, 13-13-116
SB0242_X: 13-12-202, 13-13-116