MTGOP has the Montana Constitution In Their Crosshairs, Despite Opposition from 63% of Montanans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 20th, 2023
CONTACT
hadley@montanademocrats.org
The GOP is trying to seize power over non-partisan courts, independent redistricting, personal reproductive health care, state universities, and more.
Helena, MT – Legislative Republicans are barreling forward with their slate of extreme constitutional amendments that will strip Montanans of the rights guaranteed in their state constitution. According to recent polling, 63% of Montanans opposed amendments to the state’s governing document – but listening to the will of the people has never been a Montana Republican priority.
“There is one apparent theme that runs through the GOP’s constitutional amendment slate,” says Montana Democratic Party Chair Robyn Driscoll. “Montana Republicans want absolute power over everything: they are trying to wrest control away from voters, from non-partisan institutions, and from women and doctors.”
Claiming Control over Reproductive Freedom:
“Constitutional referendum personhood amendment,” from Rep. Lee Deming (R-Laurel) would establish that life starts at fertilization or conception, and not offer any sort of exceptions for the case of an ectopic pregnancy.
“Constitutional amendment to prohibit funding of abortion,” from House Speaker Matt Regier (R-Kalispell)
When polled, 75% of Montanans oppose a constitutional amendment to restrict the right to reproductive health care.
Claiming Control over the Independent Judiciary:
“Constitutional amendment to change process to select supreme court justices”, from Rep. Bill Mercer (R-Billings), would take away Montana voters’ right to elect their state supreme court justices, and instead, bestow that power to the Executive branch. Mercer has promised this amendment will make it to a hearing. Despite the fact that a stunning 91% of Montanans would oppose such an amendment, according to recent polling by research firm Middle Fork Strategies.
“Constitutional amendment re process/reasons for removal and discipline of judges,” from Rep. Lyn Hellegaard (R-Missoula)
Claiming Control over the Independent Redistricting Process:
There are several amendments that go after the independent redistricting process, including Caleb Hinkle's (R-Belgrade) LC2157which would give the power to redistrict the maps to the party that won the most recent gubernatorial election.
Claiming Control over Montana universities:
“Constitutional amendment regarding board of regents" from Rep. Mike Hopkins (R-Missoula) would force Montana’s universities to take orders from the Legislature.
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