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Committee weighs HB818 to block foreign nationals from funding statewide ballot measures
Summary
Rep. Braxton Mitchell’s HB818 would ban foreign nationals from contributing to or influencing statewide ballot initiatives; supporters cited large out‑of‑state donations (16|30 fund) and foreign donors, while nonprofits warned the bill’s enforcement and disclosure mechanics could chill lawful civic activity. Committee held robust testimony and proponents sought a due pass.
Representative Braxton Mitchell opened House Bill 818 as a measure to prohibit foreign nationals from funding or otherwise influencing statewide ballot initiatives. The sponsor framed the bill as an effort to protect the integrity of Montana’s ballot process and cited recent campaigns where large, out‑of‑state expenditures shaped outcomes.
Proponents included a representative…
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