Update: No Longer Enforceable
Several lawsuits have been filed against the Montana Ballot Interference Prevention Act.
As a result, the law is not currently enforceable.
This means you do not need to complete a form when returning a ballot for another person.
There are no restrictions on who may return ballots.
There are no restrictions on the number of ballots you may return for others.
More Information on BIPA
LR 129 - The Montana Ballot Interference Prevention Act
In 2018 LR 129, the Montana Ballot Interference Prevention Act (BIPA), was passed by 63% of the vote.
Effective for elections beginning in 2019, you may only return a voted ballot for:
- Yourself
- Your family member
- Your household member
- Your acquaintance (someone you know)
- Someone that you are a caregiver for
At any given election, you may return up to six (6) ballots, not including your own.
When you return a ballot for someone other than yourself, you must complete a Ballot Collection Registry Form. You can fill out the form ahead of time and bring it with you when you drop off ballots, or you can ask for the form when you drop off ballots.
Violations are punishable by a fine of $500 for each ballot unlawfully collected. Election officials and postal workers are exempt from BIPA regulations.
This law is enforced by the Commissioner of Political Practices. For more information, visit their website at https://politicalpractices.mt.gov/Featured-Online-Services/Montana-Ballot-Interference-Prevention-Act.
