Ten Republicans filed paperwork on Tuesday seeking a special session to fix flawed campaign finance laws, but Democrats say the move is unnecessary. For a session to convene, at least 76 of the 150 members of the House and Senate must approve. Republicans say the emergency measure — which is also expensive — is necessary to fix what they call “defects” in Montana law governing campaign contributions and close a “loophole” that allows for cash from political action committees to flow to candidates without limit.
The Republicans include state Sens. Jedediah Hinkle, R-Bozeman; David Howard, R-Park City; Janna Taylor, R-Dayton; Cary Smith, R-Billings; and Nels Swandal, R-Wilsall; and state Reps. Nancy Ballance, R-Hamilton; Theresa Manzella, R-Hamilton; Matthew Monforton, R-Bozeman; Randall Pinocci, R-Sun River; and Daniel Zolnikov, R-Billings.
Of the 32 special sessions Montana has convened since 1889, only two have been sought by legislators. The governor can also request a special session.
Full Article: 10 Montana Republicans call for special session on campaign finance | Government & Politics | billingsgazette.com.