Montana bill would set rules to select and oversee commissioners to an Article V convention

Summary

Sen. Tom McGilvray introduced SB120 to create a legislative process to select, swear, limit and recall state commissioners sent to an Article V convention; proponents said it prepares Montana for possible multistate action while opponents argued commissioners should be elected and warned of unresolved constitutional questions.

Sen. Tom McGilvray introduced Senate Bill 120, saying the measure "establishes a process to select commissioners to an article 5 convention" and to set administrative mechanics including an oath and recall authority for delegates. The committee heard multiple proponents and opponents before closing the hearing.

The bill would add statutory definitions and qualifications for commissioners, require selection in a joint session of the legislature, set a commissioning resolution that can limit delegates to topics authorized by the legislature, prescribe an oath, set compensation at the same rate as legislators, cap gifts at $200, and create an advisory oversight committee and recall processes. McGilvray told the panel the statute is intended to ensure Montana can "have representation" if an Article V convention is called.

Supporters said SB120 fills a procedural gap.…

Montana bill would set rules to select and oversee commissioners to an Article V convention

Summary

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