Decision Western Native Voice et al. v. Jacobsen (voting rights)

Decision Western Native Voice et al. v. Jacobsen (voting rights)

After a two week trial, on September 30, 2022, a Montana court struck down as unconstitutional two state laws that hinder Native participation in the state’s electoral process. HB 176 eliminated Election Day registration, which reservation voters disproportionately rely upon to cast votes in Montana. HB 530 prohibited paid third-party ballot assistance, a service that aids Native voters living on reservations. The court ruled that the laws violate provisions of the Montana Constitution, including the right to vote, equal protection, free speech, and due process.

The 199 page order is here:

More background and information on the case can be seen here.