Montana 2023 Regular Session

Montana House Bill HB540

Introduced
2/14/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Engrossed
2/28/23  
Refer
3/13/23  

Caption

Eliminate certain gender/sex requirements for party committee representatives

Impact

If enacted, HB 540 would significantly impact the composition of political party committees across Montana. Removing the gender requirement allows for a more diverse range of candidates to be selected for committee positions, potentially increasing participation from underrepresented groups. This change could pave the way for political parties to develop committee structures that better reflect the demographics and values of their communities. However, the bill's passage may lead to a shift in how political dynamics function within local parties, impacting party politics as members adapt to new norms.

Summary

House Bill 540 aims to amend existing laws pertaining to political party committee representatives in Montana. The primary focus of the bill is to eliminate the requirement for representatives to be of different sexes and genders. This reflects a movement towards greater inclusivity and flexibility in how political parties organize their committee structures, allowing for two representatives of the same gender to serve. The bill modifies several sections of the Montana Code Annotated, specifically sections 13-38-201, 13-38-203, and 13-38-205, updating the language to reflect these changes in committee representation requirements.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support as a progressive step towards gender equality in political organizations, it may also face criticism from traditionalists who believe that gender balance is essential for fair representation. Some opponents may argue that having representatives from different genders is vital to ensure diverse perspectives within political discussions. The amendments could spark debate over the best methods for achieving fair representation in political committees, as this change challenges long-standing conventions in the political landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT SB503

Generally revise political party committee laws

MT HB725

Require that individuals may not be a precinct committee representative of more than one political party

MT HB1267

Elimination of certain gender specific terms.

MT SB322

Generally revise election laws on organization/operation of committees

MT HB495

Generally revise laws related to precincts and precinct committees

MT S2660

Eliminates male and female designations for election of State and county political party committee candidates.

MT HB705

Generally revise laws related to county and city central committees

MT SB693

Clarifying meeting voting requirements for political party executive committees

MT HB4389

Relating to state political party committees

MT HB3550

Relating to state political party committees

Similar Bills

KY HB2

AN ACT relating to redistricting and declaring an emergency.

AZ HB2879

County committee; vacancy; precinct committeeman

AZ SB1217

County committee; vacancy; precinct committeeman

MT SB184

Provide that only contested precinct committee men/women need to be on the primary election ballot

AZ HB2768

Political parties; precinct committeemen; organization

AZ SB1073

Precinct committeeman; vacancy; technical correction

TX HB3102

Relating to political parties' governance and conventions.

MT HB725

Require that individuals may not be a precinct committee representative of more than one political party