House Bill No. introduced by L. Schubert and B. Mitchell mandates that all signature gatherers for ballot issues in Montana must be both residents of Montana and registered voters in the state. This requirement is reflected in amendments to Sections 13-27-233 and 13-27-302 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). Specifically, the bill inserts language stating that an individual must be a Montana resident and a registered Montana voter to work as a signature gatherer. Additionally, the bill requires that an affidavit attached to each petition sheet must confirm that the signature gatherer meets these residency and voter registration criteria.

The bill also includes provisions for the immediate effect of the law upon passage and approval. The changes aim to ensure that those collecting signatures for ballot initiatives are familiar with the state and its electorate, thereby enhancing the integrity of the signature-gathering process. The amendments are designed to strengthen the accountability of signature gatherers and ensure that they are part of the community they are representing in the electoral process.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 13-27-233, 13-27-302
HB0645_1(1): 13-27-233, 13-27-302
HB0645_1(2): 13-27-233, 13-27-302
HB0645_1(3): 13-27-233, 13-27-302
HB0645_1: 13-27-233, 13-27-302