HB 1189 would prohibit the use of public resources to collect political funds or monies that are commingled with political funds. In effect, the bill would disallow unions' use of the state's payroll deduction system if the dues collected through that system are used for political purposes. The legislation now sits before the Senate State Affairs committee while sponsors round up 2 more votes to ensure victory on the Senate floor. Republican Governor Bill Owens strongly supports paycheck protection. A handful of liberal Republicans in the State Senate, however, objected to the bill and withheld their support, allowing the Senate to adjourn before voting up or down on the proposal.
Supporters plan to return with a new bill in the next session.
Republican Governor William Janklow supported the legislation. Although the legislature has adjourned for the year, the paycheck protection fight will be continued in the next session. The measure, HB 521 sponsored by Rep. Steve Vick, would require public and private sector unions in Montana to obtain the written permission of members before withholding dues for political purposes. Curiously, Republican Governor Marc Racicot has remained silent on the bill, a move which is being interpreted by legislators as tacit opposition. Racicot vetoed a paycheck protection measure passed by the legislature in 1997.