Learn More on these Montana Constitutional Initiatives

Every election cycle includes ballot initiatives and levies on top of all the candidates for various offices. 2024 is no exception. This general election includes three Montana constitutional initiatives: 126, 127 and 128. These are serious votes to consider as they add provisions to the state constitution outside of law and legislation.

Midst the swirl of rhetoric and campaign ads, the signature gatherers and their elevator pitches, and the confusing or ambiguous wording on ballot measures, it's easy to cast a vote that is contrary to your actual wishes or views.

It is therefore vitally important to read these constitutional initiatives before making any mark on a ballot. Are you sure you want new things in the Montana constitution?

To assist with this weighty decision, the Carbon County Republican Women and the Montana Family Foundation will host three Thursday night public forums on these C.I.s. You are welcome to attend any and will be worth the quick road trip and the visit to these great towns.

All three start at 6:30 in the evening and should wrap at 8:00, although the Q&A may go for longer.

September 19th in Red Lodge

Red Lodge Senior Citizens Center, located at 207 Villard Avenue S.

September 26th in Bridger

Bridger Senior Center, also known as the Golden Age Society, located at 306 E Broadway Avenue.

October 3rd in Joliet

Joliet Community Center, located at 209 E Front Avenue.

What do these Constitutional Initiatives actually say?

Good question. We can get so caught up in all the hand-wringing that we don't know what's actually written. So to prepare you for the forums and the votes, here are .pdfs of the documents provided by the Montana Secretary of State.

attachment-Ballot-Language-for-Constitutional-Initiative-No.-126

attachment-Ballot-Language-for-Constitutional-Initiative-No.-127

attachment-Ballot-Language-for-Constitutional-Initiative-No.-128

There, you have the documents and the forums. Can't plead ignorance now.

Source: Cynthia Marble