In a recent meeting of the Montana Legislature's House State Administration Committee, significant discussions centered around election integrity and the proposed constitutional amendment regarding voting eligibility. The meeting, held on March 21, 2025, highlighted concerns about noncitizen voting and the implications of state law versus proprietary contracts in electoral processes.

One of the key topics was the debate over whether state law or proprietary contracts, such as those signed by county commissioners, should take precedence in election administration. This discussion was sparked by a situation involving an election machine that required troubleshooting, raising questions about transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Concerns were voiced about the potential for glitches and inaccuracies in voter rolls, referencing a notable case from Colorado that underscored the importance of maintaining integrity in elections.

Jack Tomczak, representing Americans for Citizen Voting, advocated for a constitutional amendment that would clarify voting rights, emphasizing that only U.S. citizens aged 18 and older should be allowed to vote. He argued that this amendment is supported by a significant majority of Montanans, with polling indicating that 73% of voters favor the change. Tomczak framed the issue as nonpartisan, asserting that it is about ensuring election integrity rather than influencing federal elections.

The committee also addressed a past incident in Phillips County, where two noncitizens voted in a municipal election, which was decided by a mere two votes. This incident raised alarms about the potential for confusion among legal residents regarding their voting rights and the need for clearer regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As the meeting progressed, committee members sought clarification on the definitions of citizenship and voter eligibility, with discussions indicating that the criteria for being considered a citizen in Montana can be complex. The proposed amendment aims to simplify these definitions and ensure that only qualified electors participate in all elections, including municipal and local district elections.

In conclusion, the discussions during this meeting reflect ongoing efforts to enhance election integrity in Montana. The proposed constitutional amendment is set to be a focal point in future legislative sessions, with advocates pushing for clarity and accountability in the voting process. As the committee continues to deliberate, the implications of these discussions will likely resonate throughout the state, influencing both policy and public perception of electoral integrity.