MT HB207

Candidate filing deadline for local government and special purpose district offices changed from 145-85 days before the election to 105-90 days before the election

Write-in candidate declaration deadline moved from 65 days to 90 days before the election, and candidates who lose in a primary election are prohibited from seeking nomination by write-in or petition for the same office in the general election

Signature requirements for third-party and independent candidate petitions reduced from 5% to 4% of votes cast for the successful candidate at the last general election

Petitions for nomination by independent candidates or minor parties must now be filed before the primary election rather than before the general election

Act is effective immediately upon passage and approval