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Bill to give Secretary of State formal supervisory powers over county election administrators draws mixed reaction; tabled by committee
Summary
Senate Bill 298 would have given the Secretary of State formal supervisory authority over county election administrators; supporters cited the Butte‑Silver Bow recount and gaps in oversight, while opponents warned of centralization and local control erosion. The committee ultimately tabled the bill during executive action.
Senate Bill 298, a proposal to give the Montana Secretary of State formal supervisory authority over county election administrators, produced sharply divided testimony before the Senate State Administration Committee and was tabled during the committee’s executive session.
Sen. Theresa Manzella, R‑District 44 and sponsor of the bill, said the measure was intended to provide the secretary of state with the power to require reports and to “promptly gather and diligently provide any information requested related to voter registration, voter rolls, elections, and election management systems.” She said the change was prompted by concerns raised…
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