Montana voters approve ban on corporate political spending
About 65% of voters backed Initiative 194, which takes effect Jan. 1 and could face a constitutional challenge in the U.S. Supreme Court.
Roughly 65% of Montana voters approved Initiative 194, known as the Montana Plan, which aims to limit corporate spending on elections. The state was won by Donald Trump by nearly 20 points in 2024. The measure takes effect as state law on Jan. 1.
Under the initiative, corporations, trade associations, labor unions and nonprofits, including those based outside Montana, would lose the legal power to spend money to influence elections in the state. Violators could lose state-granted privileges such as limited liability until improperly spent funds are surrendered. The plan rests on the idea that corporate powers come from the states, even though corporations have constitutional rights.
The Republican-controlled legislature could amend or repeal the measure, but supporters have said they would take the issue back to voters in 2028 if that happens. The measure is expected to face a constitutional test that could reach the Supreme Court, and similar proposals are being explored in more than 30 states. The vote came after a record $11.87 billion in political advertising nationwide this cycle, according to AdImpact.
Key points
- Initiative 194 passed with about 65% of the vote.
- It takes effect as state law on Jan. 1.
- It would bar corporations, unions and nonprofits from spending to influence Montana elections.
- Supporters say they would return to voters in 2028 if the legislature changes it.
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Summarized with AI from the sources above and reviewed before publishing.
