February 7, 2022 •
Judge Tosses Out Last Minute Amendments
Montana District Court Judge Mike Menahan has issued a permanent injunction preventing the state from enforcing two provisions of Senate Bill 319. The two provisions in question were late additions to the bill, added during a conference committee a day […]
Montana District Court Judge Mike Menahan has issued a permanent injunction preventing the state from enforcing two provisions of Senate Bill 319.
The two provisions in question were late additions to the bill, added during a conference committee a day before the Legislature adjourned.
One amendment prohibited political committees from conducting voting activities inside residence halls, dining facilities, or athletic facilities on public college campuses.
The other amendment forced judges to recuse themselves if an attorney or party in a case before them made more than 50% of the maximum allowed donation to their campaign within the previous six years.
The Montana Constitution requires bills to contain a single subject and prevents the Legislature from amending bills to the point their original purpose is obfuscated.
Gov. Greg Gianforte is currently deciding whether to appeal the injunction.
The case is currently pending, with several other lawsuits challenging the bill awaiting a court decision.
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