reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-401. Voter information pamphlet

13-27-401. Voter information pamphlet.
(1) The secretary of state shall prepare for printing a voter information pamphlet containing information relevant to the election, including but not limited to the following information for each statewide ballot issue to be voted on at an election, as applicable:
(a) ballot title, fiscal statement if applicable, and complete text of the issue;
(b) the form in which the issue will appear on the ballot;
(c) arguments advocating approval and rejection of the issue; and
(d) rebuttal arguments.
(2) The pamphlet must also contain a notice advising the recipient as to where additional copies of the pamphlet may be obtained.
(3) Whenever more than one statewide ballot issue is to be voted on at a single election, the secretary of state may publish a single pamphlet for all of the statewide ballot issues. The secretary of state may arrange the information in the order that seems most appropriate, but the information for all statewide ballot issues in the pamphlet must be presented in the same order.
(4) The secretary of state may prescribe by rule the format and manner of submission of the arguments concerning the statewide ballot issue.
History: Ap. p. Sec. 14, Ch. 342, L. 1977; Sec. 37-128, R.C.M. 1947; Ap. p. Sec. 74, Ch. 365, L. 1977; Sec. 37-111, R.C.M. 1947; R.C.M. 1947, 37-111(1), (2), 37-128(1); amd. Sec. 11, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 336, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 10, Ch. 390, L. 1993; amd. Sec. 31, Ch. 273, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 41, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-403. Appointment to committee

13-27-403. Appointment to committee.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), appointments to committees advocating approval or rejection of a statewide ballot issue must be made no later than 1 week prior to the deadline for filing arguments on the ballot issue under 13-27-406.
(2) Appointments to committees advocating approval or rejection of a statutory referendum or a statewide initiative must be made no later than 1 week before the deadline for filing arguments on the ballot issue under 13-27-406. All persons responsible for appointing members to the committee shall submit to the secretary of state the names and addresses of the appointees no later than the date set by this subsection. The submission must include the written acceptance of appointment from each appointee required by 13-27-402(6). If an appointment is not made by the required time, the committee members that have been appointed may fill the vacancy by unanimous written consent up until the deadline for filing the arguments.
(3) Within 5 days after receiving notice under subsection (2) but not later than 5 days after the deadline set for appointment of committee members, the secretary of state shall notify the appointees to a committee appointed pursuant to subsection (1) or (2) by certified mail, with return receipt requested, of the deadlines for submission of the committee's arguments.
History: En. 37-129 by Sec. 15, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-129(1), (2); amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 549, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 19, Ch. 298, L. 1987; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 359, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 47, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 20, Ch. 481, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 43, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-404. Committee presiding officer

13-27-404. Committee presiding officer.
The appointee of the president of the senate is the presiding officer of any committee to which that officer makes an appointment. The appointing authority for other committees shall name a presiding officer at the time the appointments are made.
History: En. 37-129 by Sec. 15, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-129(3); amd. Sec. 89, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-405. Committee expenses

13-27-405. Committee expenses.
Each committee is entitled to receive funds for the preparation of arguments and expenses of members not to exceed $100 for a three-member committee and $200 for a five-member committee. Itemized claims for actual expenses incurred, approved by a majority of the committee, must be submitted to the secretary of state for payment from funds appropriated for that purpose.
History: En. 37-130 by Sec. 16, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-130; amd. Sec. 12, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 90, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-406. Limitation on length of argument -- time of filing

13-27-406. Limitation on length of argument -- time of filing.
An argument advocating approval or rejection of a statewide ballot issue is limited to a single side of a single 7 1/2-inch by 10-inch page and must be filed, in a black-and-white, camera-ready format, with the secretary of state no later than 105 days before the election at which the issue will be voted on by the people. The argument must consist solely of written material prepared by the committee and may not consist of pictures, clippings, or other material. The written material must be prepared in the font and type style required by the secretary of state. With the goal of achieving readability and uniformity, the secretary of state shall prescribe a commonly used font and type style. A majority of the committee responsible for preparation shall approve and sign each argument filed. Separate signed letters of approval of an argument may be filed with the secretary of state by members of a committee if necessary to meet the filing deadline.
History: En. 37-131 by Sec. 17, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-131; amd. Sec. 13, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 119, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 47, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 374, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 44, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-407. Rebuttal arguments

13-27-407. Rebuttal arguments.
The secretary of state shall provide copies of the arguments advocating approval or rejection of a statewide ballot issue to the members of the adversary committee no later than 1 day following the filing of both the approval and rejection arguments for the issue. The committees may prepare rebuttal arguments no longer than one-half the size of the arguments under 13-27-406 that must be filed, in a black-and-white, camera-ready format, with the secretary of state no later than 10 days after the deadline for filing the original arguments. The argument must consist solely of written material prepared by the committee and may not consist of pictures, clippings, or other material. The written material must be prepared in the font and type style required by the secretary of state. With the goal of achieving readability and uniformity, the secretary of state shall prescribe a commonly used font and type style. Discussion in the rebuttal argument must be confined to the subject matter raised in the argument being rebutted. The rebuttal argument must be approved and signed by a majority of the committee responsible for its preparation. Separate signed letters of approval may be submitted in the same manner as for the original arguments.
History: En. 37-132 by Sec. 18, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-132; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 47, L. 1997; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 374, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 45, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-408. Rejection of improper arguments

13-27-408. Rejection of improper arguments.
The secretary of state shall reject, with the approval of the attorney general, an argument or other matter held to contain obscene, vulgar, profane, scandalous, libelous, or defamatory matter; any language that in any way incites, counsels, promotes, or advocates hatred, abuse, violence, or hostility toward, or that tends to cast ridicule or shame upon, a group of persons by reason of race, color, religion, or sex, as defined in 1-1-201; or any matter not allowed to be sent through the mail. Such arguments may not be filed or printed in the voter information pamphlet.
History: En. 37-133 by Sec. 19, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-133(1); amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 685, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-409. Fact statement to be supported -- liability for contents of argument

13-27-409. Fact statement to be supported -- liability for contents of argument.
(1) A factual statement made in an argument advocating approval or rejection of a statewide ballot issue or in a rebuttal argument to either of those arguments must be supported by documents filed by the proponents or opponents with the secretary of state within 2 business days of the date on which the statements are required to be filed with the secretary of state.
(2) Nothing in this chapter relieves an author of any argument from civil or criminal responsibility for statements contained in an argument printed in the voter information pamphlet.
History: En. 37-133 by Sec. 19, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-133(2); amd. Sec. 21, Ch. 481, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 46, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 4. Voter Information Pamphlets › 13-27-410. Printing and distribution of voter information pamphlet

13-27-410. Printing and distribution of voter information pamphlet.
(1) At least 110 days before the election, the secretary of state shall arrange with the department of administration by requisition for the printing and delivery of a voter information pamphlet for all statewide ballot issues. The requisition must include a delivery list providing for shipment of the required number of pamphlets to each county and to the secretary of state.
(2) The secretary of state shall estimate the number of copies necessary to furnish one copy to each voter in each county, except that two or more voters with the same mailing address and the same last name may be counted as one voter. The secretary of state shall provide for an extra supply of the pamphlets in determining the number of voter pamphlets to be ordered in the requisition.
(3) The department of administration shall call for bids and contract with the lowest bidder for the printing and delivery of the voter information pamphlet. The contract must require completion of printing and shipment, as specified on the delivery list, of the voter information pamphlets by not later than 45 days before the election at which the statewide ballot issues will be voted on by the people.
(4) The county official responsible for voter registration in each county shall mail one copy of the voter information pamphlet to each registered voter in the county who is on the active voter list, except that two or more voters with the same mailing address and the same last name may be counted as one voter. The mailing label may include an address line that addresses the voter or the current resident. The mailing must take place no later than 30 days before the election.
(5) Ten copies of the voter information pamphlet must be available at each precinct for use by any voter wishing to read the explanatory information and complete text before voting on the statewide ballot issues.
History: En. 37-134 by Sec. 20, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-134; amd. Sec. 14, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 11, Ch. 390, L. 1993; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 119, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 208, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 42, Ch. 475, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 22, Ch. 586, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 47, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 5. Election Procedure › 13-27-501. Secretary of state to certify ballot form

13-27-501. Secretary of state to certify ballot form.
(1) The secretary of state shall furnish to the official of each county responsible for preparation of the ballots, at the same time as the election administrator certifies the names of the persons who are candidates for offices to be filled at the election, a certified copy of the form in which each statewide ballot issue to be voted on by the people at that election is to appear on the ballot.
(2) The secretary of state shall list for each ballot issue:
(a) the number;
(b) the method of placement on the ballot;
(c) the title;
(d) the attorney general's explanatory statement, if applicable;
(e) the fiscal statement, if applicable;
(f) the statement of purpose and implication if not otherwise listed as the title pursuant to 13-27-212;
(g) the yes and no statement; and
(h) a statement that the statewide ballot issue conflicts with one or more issues, referenced by number, that also appear on the ballot, if applicable.
(3) When required to do so, the secretary of state shall use for each ballot issue the title of the legislative act or legislative constitutional proposal or the title provided by the attorney general or district court. Following the number of the ballot issue, the secretary of state, when required to do so, shall include one of the following statements to identify why the issue has been placed on the ballot:
(a) an act referred by the legislature;
(b) an amendment to the constitution proposed by the legislature;
(c) an act of the legislature referred by referendum petition; or
(d) a law or constitutional amendment proposed by initiative petition.
History: En. 37-135 by Sec. 21, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-135(1); amd. Sec. 15, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 336, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 669, L. 1983; (4)En. Sec. 2, Ch. 669, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 81, Ch. 414, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 22, Ch. 481, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 372, L. 2011; amd. Sec. 48, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 5. Election Procedure › 13-27-502. Preparation of ballots with ballot issues

13-27-502. Preparation of ballots with ballot issues.
(1) Each of the county officials responsible for the preparation of the ballots shall provide for the statewide ballot issues to appear on the official ballot in the form and order in which the statewide ballot issues have been certified by the secretary of state.
(2) All statewide ballot issues must be placed on the same official ballot as the candidates unless the secretary of state provides the election administrator with specific written approval for separate ballots. The secretary of state may issue an approval only when the number of statewide ballot issues to be voted on at an election makes it impractical to print the entire ballot, including the statewide ballot issues, on the same official ballot as the candidates.
History: En. 37-135 by Sec. 21, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-135(2); amd. Sec. 16, Ch. 400, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 54, Ch. 575, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 82, Ch. 414, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 49, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 5. Election Procedure › 13-27-503. Determination of result of election

13-27-503. Determination of result of election.
The votes on statewide ballot issues must be counted, canvassed, and certified in the same manner as votes for candidates are counted, canvassed, and certified. The abstract of votes on statewide ballot issues must be prepared and returned to the secretary of state in the manner provided by 13-15-501 for abstract of votes for state officers. At the same time as the votes for state officers are canvassed, the board of state canvassers shall proceed to canvass the votes given for each statewide ballot issue. The secretary of state, as secretary of the board of state canvassers, shall prepare and file in the secretary of state's office a statement of the canvass, giving the number and title of each statewide ballot issue, the whole number of votes cast in the state for and against each statewide ballot issue, and the effective date of each statewide ballot issue approved by a majority of those voting on the issue. The secretary of state shall transmit a certified copy of the statement of the canvass to the governor.
History: En. 37-136 by Sec. 22, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-136(1); amd. Sec. 55, Ch. 575, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 91, Ch. 56, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 31, Ch. 368, L. 2017; amd. Sec. 50, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 5. Election Procedure › 13-27-504. Copy of approved issues to be sent to legislative services division

13-27-504. Copy of approved issues to be sent to legislative services division.
The secretary of state shall send a certified copy of all statewide ballot issues that have been approved by a majority of those voting on the issue and a copy of the statement of the canvass to the legislative services division at the same time that a certified copy of the statement of the canvass is transmitted to the governor.
History: En. 37-136 by Sec. 22, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-136(2); amd. Sec. 55, Ch. 545, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 51, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 6. Legal Actions -- Penalties › 13-27-601. Notification of petitioner -- legal action concerning petition

13-27-601. Notification of petitioner -- legal action concerning petition.
If a legal action is filed challenging the validity of a petition, the secretary of state shall immediately notify the person who submitted the proposed statewide ballot issue.
History: En. Sec. 16, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 6. Legal Actions -- Penalties › 13-27-606. Contest of ballot issue petitions

13-27-606. Contest of ballot issue petitions.
(1) Any qualified elector may, within 30 days after the date on which the issue was certified to the governor, file an action in the district court in the county of residence of the qualified elector contesting the certification of a statewide ballot issue for illegal petition signatures or an erroneous or fraudulent count or canvass of petition signatures.
(2) If a court finds that illegal petition signatures or an erroneous or fraudulent count or canvass of petition signatures affected the outcome of the petition process and certification, the secretary of state shall decertify the contested statewide ballot issue.
History: En. Sec. 18, Ch. 481, L. 2007; Sec. 13-27-317, MCA 2021; redes. 13-27-606 by Code Commissioner, 2023; amd. Sec. 40, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 6. Legal Actions -- Penalties › 13-27-610. False entries -- signing twice -- penalties

13-27-610. False entries -- signing twice -- penalties.
A person who knowingly makes a false entry upon a petition or affidavit required by this chapter or who knowingly signs a petition to place the same issue on the ballot at the same election more than once is guilty of unsworn falsification or tampering with public records or information, as appropriate, and is punishable as provided in 45-7-203 or 45-7-208, as applicable.
History: En. 37-138 by Sec. 24, Ch. 342, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 37-138; Sec. 13-27-106, MCA 2021; redes. 13-27-610 by Code Commissioner, 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 27. Statewide Ballot Issues › Part 6. Legal Actions -- Penalties › 13-27-611. Physical prevention of obtaining signatures or physical intimidation of signature gatherers prohibited

13-27-611. Physical prevention of obtaining signatures or physical intimidation of signature gatherers prohibited.
A person may not knowingly or purposefully physically prevent an individual from obtaining signatures or attempting to obtain signatures on a petition for a statewide ballot issue or physically intimidate another individual when that individual is obtaining or attempting to obtain signatures on a petition for a statewide ballot issue. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not more than $500, by imprisonment for not more than 90 days, or by both a fine and imprisonment.
History: En. Sec. 13, Ch. 481, L. 2007; Sec. 13-27-210, MCA 2021; redes. 13-27-611 by Code Commissioner, 2023; amd. Sec. 32, Ch. 647, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-101. Election code not to supersede criminal code -- statute of limitations

13-35-101. Election code not to supersede criminal code -- statute of limitations.
(1) The penalty provisions of the election laws of this state are intended to supplement and not to supersede the provisions of the Montana Criminal Code.
(2) Unless otherwise provided, the general time limitations for prosecutions for violations of the election laws are those specified in 45-1-205.
History: En. 23-47-101 by Sec. 1, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-101.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-102. Trivial benefits not covered by criminal provisions

13-35-102. Trivial benefits not covered by criminal provisions.
It is not the intent of the election laws of this state to criminalize activities involving trivial benefits incidental to the campaign process which involve no substantial risk of undermining the election process.
History: En. 23-47-102 by Sec. 2, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-102.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-103. Violations as misdemeanor

13-35-103. Violations as misdemeanor.
A person who knowingly violates a provision of the election laws of this state for which no other penalty is specified is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History: En. 23-47-103 by Sec. 3, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-103.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-104. Attempt as a violation

13-35-104. Attempt as a violation.
An attempt, as defined in 45-4-103, to violate a provision of the election laws of this state is itself a violation of the election laws and is punishable as provided in 45-4-103.
History: En. 23-47-104 by Sec. 4, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-104.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-105. Aiding and abetting

13-35-105. Aiding and abetting.
A person who is legally accountable, as provided in 45-2-302, for the conduct of another which violates a provision of the election laws of this state is also guilty of a violation of that provision.
History: En. 23-47-105 by Sec. 5, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-105.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-106. Ineligibility to hold office because of conviction

13-35-106. Ineligibility to hold office because of conviction.
In addition to all other penalties prescribed by law:
(1) a candidate who is convicted of violating any provision of this title, except 13-35-207(9), is ineligible to be a candidate for any public office in the state of Montana until final discharge from state supervision;
(2) a campaign treasurer who is convicted of violating any provision of this title, except 13-35-207(9), is ineligible to be a candidate for any public office or to hold the position of campaign treasurer in any campaign in the state of Montana until final discharge from state supervision;
(3) if an elected official or a candidate is adjudicated to have violated any provision of this title, except 13-35-207(9), the individual must be removed from nomination or office, as the case may be, even though the individual was regularly nominated or elected.
History: En. 23-47-106 by Sec. 6, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-106; amd. Sec. 215, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 92, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-107. Voiding election

13-35-107. Voiding election.
(1) (a) If a court finds that the violation of any provision of this title by any person probably affected the outcome of any election, the result of that election may be held void and a special election held at least 85 days after the finding.
(b) If the violation occurred during a primary election, the court may direct the selection of a new candidate according to the provisions of state law relating to the filling of vacancies on the general election ballot. Except as provided in subsection (2), an action to void an election must be commenced within 1 year after the date of the election in question.
(2) An action to void a bond election must be commenced within 60 days after the date of the election in question.
History: En. 23-47-107 by Sec. 7, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-107; amd. Sec. 216, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 38, Ch. 250, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 14, Ch. 292, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 191, Ch. 49, L. 2015.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 1. General Provisions › 13-35-108. Powers of district court

13-35-108. Powers of district court.
In any action brought under the election laws of this state, the appropriate district court may enjoin any person to prevent the doing of any prohibited act or to compel the performance of any act required by the election laws.
History: En. 23-47-108 by Sec. 8, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-108.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-201. Electors and ballots

13-35-201. Electors and ballots.
(1) An elector may not show the contents of the elector's ballot to anyone after it is marked. An elector may not place any mark upon the ballot by which it may be identified as the one voted by the elector.
(2) An elector may not receive a ballot from any person other than an election judge and may not vote any ballot except one received from an election judge. A person other than an election judge may not deliver a ballot to an elector.
(3) A person may not solicit an elector to show the elector's ballot after it is marked.
(4) An elector who does not vote a ballot delivered to the elector shall, before leaving the polling place, return the ballot to an election judge.
History: En. 23-47-109 by Sec. 9, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-109; amd. Sec. 93, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-202. Conduct of election officials or election workers

13-35-202. Conduct of election officials or election workers.
An election official or election worker may not:
(1) deposit in a ballot box a paper ballot that is not marked as official;
(2) examine an elector's ballot before putting the ballot in the ballot box;
(3) look at any mark made by the elector upon the ballot;
(4) make or place any mark or device on any ballot with the intent to ascertain how the elector has voted;
(5) allow any individual other than the elector to be present at the marking of the ballot except as provided in 13-1-116, 13-13-118, 13-13-119, and 13-13-229; or
(6) make a false statement in a certificate regarding affirmation.
History: En. 23-47-110 by Sec. 10, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-110; amd. Sec. 217, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 83, Ch. 414, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 17, Ch. 61, L. 2021; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 311, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-203. Interference with election officials or election workers

13-35-203. Interference with election officials or election workers.
A person who, in any manner, interferes with the election officials or election workers holding an election or conducting a canvass so as to prevent, obstruct, impair, or hinder the election or canvass from being fairly held and lawfully conducted is guilty of obstruction of a public servant and is punishable as provided in 45-7-302.
History: En. 23-47-111 by Sec. 11, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-111; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 311, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-204. Official misconduct

13-35-204. Official misconduct.
A person charged with performance of any duty under the provisions of the election laws of this state is guilty of official misconduct and is punishable as provided in 45-7-401 whenever the person:
(1) knowingly neglects or refuses to perform that duty; or
(2) knowingly and fraudulently acts, in the person's official capacity, in contravention or violation of any provision of the election laws.
History: En. 23-47-112 by Sec. 12, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-112; amd. Sec. 94, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-205. Tampering with election records and information

13-35-205. Tampering with election records and information.
A person is guilty of tampering with public records or information and is punishable as provided in 45-7-208 whenever the person:
(1) suppresses any declaration or certificate of nomination that has been filed;
(2) purposely causes a vote to be incorrectly recorded as to the candidate or ballot issue voted on;
(3) in an election return, knowingly adds to or subtracts from the votes actually cast at the election;
(4) changes any ballot after it has been completed by the elector;
(5) adds a ballot to those legally polled at an election, either before or after the ballots have been counted, with the purpose of changing the result of the election;
(6) causes a name to be placed on the registry lists other than in the manner provided by this title;
(7) changes a poll list or checklist;
(8) installs a modem or other unauthorized external communication device in a voting system; or
(9) employs a modem or other unauthorized external communication device to transmit data to or from a voting system.
History: En. 23-47-113 by Sec. 13, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-113; amd. Sec. 84, Ch. 414, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 154, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-206. Injury to election equipment, materials, and records

13-35-206. Injury to election equipment, materials, and records.
A person is guilty of criminal mischief or tampering with public records and information, as appropriate, and is punishable as provided in 45-6-101 or 45-7-208, as applicable, whenever the person:
(1) prior to or on election day, knowingly defaces or destroys any list of candidates posted in accordance with the provisions of the law;
(2) during an election:
(a) removes or defaces instructions for the voters; or
(b) removes or destroys any of the supplies or other conveniences placed in the voting station for the purpose of enabling a voter to prepare the voter's ballot;
(3) removes any ballots from the polling place before the closing of the polls with the purpose of changing the result of the election;
(4) carries away or destroys any poll lists, checklists, ballots, ballot boxes, or other equipment for the purpose of disrupting or invalidating an election;
(5) knowingly detains, mutilates, alters, or destroys any election returns;
(6) mutilates, secretes, destroys, or alters election records, except as provided by law;
(7) tampers with, disarranges, defaces, injures, or impairs a voting system with the intent to alter the outcome of an election;
(8) mutilates, injures, or destroys a ballot or appliance used in connection with a voting system; or
(9) fraudulently defaces or destroys a declaration or certificate of nomination.
History: En. 23-47-114 by Sec. 14, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-114; amd. Sec. 85, Ch. 414, L. 2003.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-207. Deceptive election practices

13-35-207. Deceptive election practices.
A person is guilty of false swearing, unsworn falsification, or tampering with public records or information, as appropriate, and is punishable as provided in 45-7-202, 45-7-203, or 45-7-208, as applicable, whenever the person:
(1) falsely represents the person's name or other information required upon the person's voter registration form and causes registration with the form;
(2) signs a voter registration form knowingly witnessing any false or misleading statement;
(3) knowingly causes a false statement, certificate, or return of any kind to be signed;
(4) falsely makes a declaration or certificate of nomination;
(5) files or receives for filing a declaration or certificate of nomination knowing that all or part of the declaration or certificate is false;
(6) forges or falsely makes the official endorsement of a ballot;
(7) forges or counterfeits returns of an election purporting to have been held at a precinct, municipality, or ward where no election was in fact held;
(8) knowingly substitutes forged or counterfeit returns of election in place of the true returns for a precinct, municipality, or ward where an election was held;
(9) signs a name other than the person's own to a petition, signs more than once for the same ballot issue, or signs a petition while not being a qualified elector of the state; or
(10) makes a false oath or affidavit where an oath or affidavit is required by law.
History: En. 23-47-115 by Sec. 15, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-115; amd. Sec. 218, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 23, Ch. 481, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 32, Ch. 368, L. 2017.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-208. Deception of elector

13-35-208. Deception of elector.
A person who assists a disabled elector pursuant to 13-1-116, 13-13-118, 13-13-119, or 13-13-229 and who deceives the elector is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History: En. 23-47-116 by Sec. 16, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-116; amd. Sec. 56, Ch. 575, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 18, Ch. 61, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-209. Fraudulent registration

13-35-209. Fraudulent registration.
(1) A person may not knowingly cause, procure, or allow the person to be registered in the official register of any election district of any county knowing that the person is not entitled to the registration.
(2) A person may not impersonate another and cause the impersonated person to be registered.
(3) When, on the trial of the person charged with any offense under the provisions of this section, it appears in evidence that the accused stands registered in the register of any county without being qualified for registration, the court shall order the registration canceled.
History: En. 23-47-117 by Sec. 17, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-117; amd. Sec. 95, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-210. Fraudulent voting prohibited -- purposefully maintaining multiple registrations prohibited

13-35-210. Fraudulent voting prohibited -- purposefully maintaining multiple registrations prohibited.
(1) A person who is not an elector may not vote.
(2) An elector may not vote more than once at an election.
(3) A person may not, for any election, apply for a ballot in the name of some other person, whether it be the name of a living, dead, or fictitious person.
(4) A person or elector may not vote in this state more than once at any election held in this state or vote in both this state and another state or territory in the same or equivalent elections, except in a special district election in which a person or elector is entitled to vote.
(5) A person or elector may not purposefully remain registered to vote in more than one place in this state or another state any time, unless related to involvement in special district elections. A person or elector previously registered to vote in another county or another state shall provide the previous registration information on the Montana voter registration application provided for in 13-2-110.
(6) A person who violates this section shall, on conviction, be fined up to $5,000, be imprisoned for up to 18 months, or both.
(7) (a) As used in this section, "equivalent elections" means:
(i) elections that have the same date for in-person voting; or
(ii) primary elections that determine which candidates appear on the ballots of general elections if those general elections have the same date for in-person voting.
(b) The term does not include a special district election held simultaneously with another election.
History: En. 23-47-118 by Sec. 18, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-118; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 742, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-211. Electioneering -- soliciting information from electors

13-35-211. Electioneering -- soliciting information from electors.
(1) A person may not do any electioneering on election day within any polling place or any building in which an election is being held or within 100 feet of any entrance to the building in which the polling place is located that aids or promotes the success or defeat of any candidate or ballot issue to be voted upon at the election.
(2) On election day, a candidate, a family member of a candidate, or a worker or volunteer for the candidate's campaign may not distribute alcohol, tobacco, food, drink, or anything of value to a voter within a polling place or a building in which an election is being held or within 100 feet of an entrance to the building in which the polling place is located.
(3) A person may not buy, sell, give, wear, or display at or about the polls on an election day any badge, button, or other insignia that is designed or tends to aid or promote the success or defeat of any candidate or ballot issue to be voted upon at the election.
(4) A person within a polling place or any building in which an election is being held may not solicit from an elector, before or after the elector has marked a ballot and returned it to an election judge, information as to whether the elector intends to vote or has voted for or against a candidate or ballot issue.
History: En. 23-47-119 by Sec. 19, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-119; amd. Sec. 219, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 192, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 216, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 401, L. 2001; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 241, L. 2015.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-212. Repealed

13-35-212. Repealed.
Sec. 407, Ch. 571, L. 1979.
History: En. 23-47-120 by Sec. 20, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-120.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-213. Preventing public meetings of electors

13-35-213. Preventing public meetings of electors.
(1) A person who, by threats, intimidations, or violence, willfully hinders or prevents electors from assembling in public meeting for the consideration of public questions is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(2) A person who willfully disturbs or breaks up a public meeting of electors or others, lawfully being held for the purpose of considering public questions, or a public school meeting is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History: En. 23-47-121 by Sec. 21, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-121.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-214. Illegal influence of voters

13-35-214. Illegal influence of voters.
A person may not knowingly or purposely, directly or indirectly, individually or through any other person, for any election, in order to induce any elector to vote or refrain from voting or to vote for or against any particular candidate, political party ticket, or ballot issue:
(1) give, lend, agree to give or lend, offer, or promise any money, liquor, or valuable consideration or promise or endeavor to procure any money, liquor, or valuable consideration; or
(2) promise to appoint another person or promise to secure or aid in securing the appointment, nomination, or election of another person to a public or private position or employment or to a position of honor, trust, or emolument in order to aid or promote the candidate's nomination or election, except that the candidate for governor may publicly announce or define the candidate's choice for lieutenant governor.
History: En. 23-47-122 by Sec. 22, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-122; amd. Sec. 96, Ch. 56, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 95, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-215. Illegal consideration for voting

13-35-215. Illegal consideration for voting.
A person, directly or indirectly, individually or through any other person, may not:
(1) before or during any election, for voting or agreeing to vote or for refraining or agreeing to refrain from voting at the election or for inducing another to do so:
(a) receive, agree, or contract for any money, gift, loan, liquor, valuable consideration, office, place, or employment for the person or any other person; or
(b) approach any candidate or agent or person representing or acting on behalf of any candidate and ask for or offer to agree or contract for any money, gift, loan, liquor, valuable consideration, office, place, or employment for the person or any other person;
(2) after an election, for having voted or refrained from voting or having induced any other person to vote or refrain from voting at the election:
(a) receive any money, gift, loan, valuable consideration, office, place, or employment; or
(b) approach any candidate or any agent or person representing or acting on behalf of any candidate and ask for or offer to receive any money, gift, loan, liquor, valuable consideration, office, place, or employment for the person or any other person.
History: En. 23-47-123 by Sec. 23, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-123; amd. Sec. 220, Ch. 571, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 97, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-216. Repealed

13-35-216. Repealed.
Sec. 407, Ch. 571, L. 1979.
History: En. 23-47-124 by Sec. 24, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-124.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-217. Officers not to influence voter

13-35-217. Officers not to influence voter.
An officer, while acting in an official capacity, may not, by menace, reward, or promise of reward, induce or attempt to induce any elector to cast a vote contrary to the elector's original intention or desire.
History: En. 23-47-125 by Sec. 25, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-125; amd. Sec. 57, Ch. 575, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 98, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-218. Coercion or undue influence of voters

13-35-218. Coercion or undue influence of voters.
(1) A person, directly or indirectly, individually or through any other person, in order to induce or compel a person to vote or refrain from voting for any candidate, the ticket of any political party, or any ballot issue before the people, may not:
(a) use or threaten to use any force, coercion, violence, restraint, or undue influence against any person; or
(b) inflict or threaten to inflict, individually or with any other person, any temporal or spiritual injury, damage, harm, or loss upon or against any person.
(2) A person may not, by abduction, duress, or any fraudulent contrivance, impede or prevent the free exercise of the franchise by any voter at any election or compel, induce, or prevail upon any elector to give or to refrain from giving the elector's vote at any election.
(3) A person may not, in any manner, interfere with a voter lawfully exercising the right to vote at an election in order to prevent the election from being fairly held and lawfully conducted.
(4) A person on election day may not obstruct the doors or entries of any polling place or engage in any solicitation of a voter within the room where votes are being cast or elsewhere in any manner that in any way interferes with the election process or obstructs the access of voters to or from the polling place.
History: En. 23-47-126 by Sec. 26, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-126; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 561, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 99, Ch. 56, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 59, Ch. 336, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-219. Repealed

13-35-219. Repealed.
Sec. 407, Ch. 571, L. 1979.
History: En. 23-47-127 by Sec. 27, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-127.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 13. Elections › Chapter 35. Election and Campaign Practices and Criminal Provisions › Part 2. Specific Provisions › 13-35-220. Bribing members of political gatherings

13-35-220. Bribing members of political gatherings.
(1) No person may give or offer a bribe to any officer or member of any legislative caucus, political convention, or political gathering of any kind held for the purpose of nominating candidates for offices of honor, trust, or profit in this state, with intent to influence the person to whom such bribe is given or offered to be more favorable to one candidate than another. No person who is a member of any of the bodies mentioned in this section may receive or offer to receive any such bribe.
(2) A violation of this section is punishable as provided in 45-7-101(3).
History: En. 23-47-128 by Sec. 28, Ch. 334, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 23-47-128.