MT HB506

Amends the Montana Constitution to replace direct election of Supreme Court justices with gubernatorial appointment from nominees provided by a six-member nomination committee

Nomination committee would consist of the Senate president, House speaker, minority leaders of both chambers, and two attorneys (one selected by majority party members, one by minority party members)

Governor must appoint from 3-5 qualified nominees within 60 days; if the committee fails to provide nominees, the governor selects from 10 candidates chosen by lottery

All Supreme Court justice appointments require Senate confirmation; district court judges would continue to be elected by voters

Requires two-thirds legislative approval for ballot placement; if approved by voters at the November 2026 general election, takes effect January 4, 2027